Supporting patients with abnormal Cervical Screening Test results

Research has found that amongst eligible women and people with a cervix, there is a low understanding of what the Cervical Screening Test looks for, which can contribute to greater confusion and stress if they receive an abnormal test result.

Lack of clear and accessible information, psychosocial factors and health professional communication can also contribute to this stress or uncertainty.

Under the National Cervical Screening Pathway, women and people with a cervix who have HPV detected through their Cervical Screening Test will require follow-up testing or a referral to colposcopy depending on their level of risk.

A colposcopy is a procedure that looks more closely at the cells in the cervix, vagina and vulva to identify any cell changes (either precancerous or cancerous) that may need treatment.

Despite the importance of attending colposcopy for the early detection and treatment of abnormal cells changes, data shows that some women and people with a cervix in Victoria referred to colposcopy do not attend. Lack of understanding or anxiety about what their results mean can contribute to delayed or missed appointments.

Support your patients who have received an abnormal Cervical Screening Test result to understand their test results and the next steps.

Download and use the resources below to help increase understanding and support attendance to follow-up. These resources have all been tested by consumers and clinicians, translated into plain language and address previously identified information needs of people with lived experience of receiving abnormal results or being referred to colposcopy.