NHS rolls out home testing kits against cervical cancer

The NHS has launched human papillomavirus (HPV) self-testing as an option for women and people with a cervix who have not attended cervical screening following previous invitations.

Cervical screening remains one of the best ways to help prevent cervical cancer. However, HPV self-testing offers another convenient way for eligible people to check for high-risk strains of HPV, a common virus that can sometimes lead to cervical cancer.

Eligible individuals will receive an invitation through the NHS App, text message, email or letter. Once invited, they can order a free self-testing kit via the NHS App, their NHS online account or the dedicated telephone ordering line.

The test can be completed privately at home using a simple swab to collect a sample, which is then returned to the NHS in a prepaid envelope for testing.

Learn more about this NHS roll out

Published: Sep 3, 2026