Human papillomavirus (HPV) study

The HPV self-testing study has now finished, results are being analysed and will be posted here when available. If you have a query about cervical screening you can contact:

National Cervical Screening Programme - 0800729729

Well Women and Family Trust - www.wons.org.nz

Cervical Screening Coordination Service - Aucklandcervicalscreening@waitematadhb.govt.nz

Welcome to the human papillomavirus (HPV) study currently being organised through WaitemataDHB, Auckland DHB, Massey University and your local doctor.

The study is looking at a new cervical screening test, different from the usual smear test, that you can easily do yourself at home or in the bathroom at a clinic. It will help us to to find out if women like using the new test.

The test, and any follow-up tests, are completely free as part of the study.

We know that some women don’t have regular smears every three years. There are lots of reasons for this. Some women find smears uncomfortable and other women are shy about having smears. Women do the new test themselves using a cotton wool swab.

How does the study work?
Women involved in the study will be put into one of three groups and will be invited to either:

Come in and do the self-test in the clinic (Group 1)
Be posted a kit to do the self-test at home (Group 2)
Have a usual smear test (Group 3).

Can I choose which group I am in?
No, women who take part will be randomly put into one of the study groups. Many more women are being invited to the self-test groups (Groups 1 and 2) than to have a usual smear (Group 3).

What happens next?
In a couple of weeks, you will receive a letter from us with more information. If you are in the home self-test group (Group 2), you will also get a test kit in the mail. If you are in the clinic self-test (Group 1) or usual smear group (Group 3), you will get a letter telling you about this.

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