Home-testing kits now available for women in England who have missed cervical screening

Dr Sue Mann, national clinical director for women's health, said: "Offering millions of women an alternative test they can do from the comfort of their own homes will be a game-changer – making it easier than ever for them to get tested.

"There are lots of reasons that may stop women from getting their cervical screening – embarrassment, lack of time or worries about discomfort – and these kits provide a discreet and convenient option we hope will encourage more women to take up the life-saving test."

The kits contain a swab, similar to a long cotton, bud which is used to collect a sample from the vagina.

It is then sent back to the NHS and if high-risk HPV is found, individuals will be invited to book a follow-up cervical screening appointment.

High-risk HPV increases the risk of cervical cancer, but it does not mean a woman will automatically develop it.

Trials of the self-testing in London suggest it could lead to one in 10 women to come forward for screening – boosting uptake by around 400,000 a year.

Other parts of the UK are also looking at introducing self-testing.

Women aged 24 to 64 are invited for cervical screening every five years – or more frequently if HPV is detected.

Through a combination of HPV vaccination, which is offered to teenagers, and improved screening, the NHS is hoping to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040.

The NHS says cervical screening appointments with a clinician is still the best way to prevent cancer – and even if you have missed an appointment you can still come forward for one.