Easier access to cervical screening with home testing

24th June 202524th June 2025

A recent BBC article highlights how new at-home cervical screening tests could make it easier for women to detect potentially cancerous cells earlier. These developments are a promising step forward, especially for those who may feel uncomfortable attending in-person appointments.

These at-home test kits aim to make the process more accessible and less daunting, especially for those who may find in-practice appointments difficult to attend. The rollout is expected to begin in January 2026 with expected sampling from March 2025.

At The Grange Medical Practice, we welcome any advance that supports early detection and improves uptake. Our nursing team is hopeful these new options will help more women take up this important test, which plays a vital role in preventing cervical cancer.

You can find more information about our cancer screening services here, and read our previous post about how we’re working to make cervical screening easier and more accessible.

We continue to offer a in-practice cervical screening appointments with increased availability each week. We are actively inviting eligible patients, but If you think you might be due or are unsure when you were last screened please send us a PATCHS request and a member of our team will be happy to advise.

Main symptoms of cervical cancer:

unusual vaginal bleeding including during or after sex, between periods or after the menopause or heavier periods than usual
changes to vaginal discharge
pain during sex or in the lower back, lower tummy or between the hip bones (pelvis)