Analysis and results
You will receive a letter with the result within 4 weeks of making the smear or taking the self-test kit.
Analysis
The smear tests and self-test kits are analysed for HPV in a laboratory.
If this virus is present, the smear test will also immediately be analysed for abnormal cells. This cell analysis is the only way to know whether further examination is needed by a gynaecologist.
The self-test kit only tests for HPV and not for abnormal cells. If HPV is found, you will still need to make an appointment for a smear test at a GP practice so that an analysis can be made for abnormal cells.
Result
You will receive a letter with the results within 4 weeks of having the smear test or sending the self-test kit. The following results are possible:
No HPV
If HPV is not found, this means that you do not have an increased risk of cervical cancer. No further analysis or examination is needed. You can simply participate in the cervical screening the next time you receive an invitation.
HPV is found, but no abnormal cells
No abnormal cells have been found. This means that there are no indications for cervical cancer or an early stage of cervical cancer. HPV was, however, found. The body’s immune system usually gets rid of this virus within 2 years. If this does not happen, the cells in your cervix can change. That is why it is important that you have another smear test conducted after 6 months. An analysis will then take place to check whether your cervical cells are still healthy.
HPV and abnormal cells
As abnormal cells were found, it is good to undergo further examination by a gynaecologist. Your GP will give you a referral latter te make an appointment with a gynaecologist in the hospital. The gynaecologist will investigate whether further treatment is needed.
Inadequate test result
The smear test could not be analysed properly. This could be because there were too few cells or because there was too much blood in the smear test. This means that a new smear test is needed. You should make an appointment with your GP for approximately 6 weeks after your initial smear test.
Frequently asked questions
-
How is the smear test analysed?
The smear test is sent to a laboratory. There, it is tested for the human papillomavirus (HPV). If HPV is detected on the smear test the same smear test will also immediately be analysed for abnormal cells.
HPV is a virus that can cause cervical cancer in the long term. The body’s immune system usually gets rid of the virus, but sometimes it doesn’t manage to do this. This can result in the generation of abnormal cells, which can lead to cervical cancer in the long term. -
How is the self-test kit analysed?
The self-test kit only tests for HPV and not for abnormal cells. If HPV is found, you will still need to make an appointment for a smear test at a GP practice so that an analysis can be made for abnormal cells. The smear test will be free of charge when you use the results letter with barcode stickers.
-
When will I receive the results?
You will receive a letter with the results within 4 weeks.
The smear test results: You and your GP will receive the results of the smear test.
The self-test kit results: Only you will receive the results. The GP will not receive the results for privacy reasons and because you are the person who requested the screening.