Cervical screening (previously known as a smear test) aims to detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could develop into cancer.
If you’ve never had any sexual contact with a man or a woman (this includes penetrative sex and skin-to-skin contact of the genital area), your risk of developing cervical cancer is very low.
Women who have never been sexually active may therefore decide not to have a cervical screening test when invited.
However, you can still have a test if you want one. If you’re not sure, talk to your GP or practice nurse.
Find out why cervical screening is offered and when cervical screening is offered, which includes information on why some women may not need a test.
Read the answers to more questions about women’s health.
Further information:
Your health, your choices