The cost of cervical screening varies. It can range from about HK$100 to HK$1000, depending on factors such as whether it is a stand alone test or part of a health check package, and who performs the test.
For the Department of Health’s Maternal & Child Health Centres, the current fee for the cervical screening service is HK$100 (eligible HKID card holder); or HK$205 (for non-eligible persons.) This fee only includes one cervical test performed by the nurse.

It is reliable and can detect early cell changes, hence preventing about 90% of cervical cancer, if done regularly. All cervical screening tests are examined in the laboratory by trained cytologists. Yet no test is perfect. A single cervical screening may miss abnormal cell changes, making regular screenings very important.

The chance of a woman who has never had sex developing cervical cancer is very small. Discuss with your family doctor if you think you need a cervical screening.

The cervical cancer vaccine is a prophylactic vaccine developed to prevent about 70% of cervical cancer by preventing infection by two high risk HPV types (HPV types 16 and 18). The vaccine DOES NOT prevent all cases of cervical cancer.

There are no strong familial tendencies for cervical cancer.

It is possible that the so-called interval cancer or rapidly-progressive cancer can occur before your next routine cervical screening. Studies show that there are no particular risk factors to predict who may develop these cancers. Some of them occur in women not having regular tests and some are caused by missed abnormal cell changes in previous cervical screenings. It is therefore VERY important to be screened regularly.

Yes, you may still have a cervical screening if pregnant, but don’t forget to inform your service provider.

Pre-cancerous changes of the cervix usually do not cause pain. In fact, they generally do not cause any symptoms and are not detected unless a woman has a pelvic exam and cervical screening. Symptoms usually do not appear until abnormal cervical cells become cancerous and invade nearby tissue. Symptoms may include:
．Abnormal bleeding (bleeding may start and stop between regular menstrual periods)
．Bleeding after intercourse, douching or pelvic exam
．Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer or is heavier than usual
．Bleeding after menopause
．Increased vaginal discharge
These symptoms may be caused by cancer or by other health problems. It is important to contact your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.