Cervical cancer screening

The data for the past five years show that cervical cancer is the second most common gynaecological malignancy in Estonia. Every year, an average of 160 women in Estonia are diagnosed with cervical cancer.

The high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause changes in the cells of the cervix. Persistent infection with a specific type of HPV can cause cervical cancer. HPV strains 16 and 18 are responsible for most cases of cervical cancer. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection.

The Estonian Health Insurance Fund invites women aged 30–65 for cervical cancer screening in five-year intervals.

In 2024 women born in 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989 and 1994 will be invited for cervical cancer screening.

For early detection and prevention of cervical cancer and pre-cancerous conditions, a sample of cells is taken for HPV testing during screening. The screening results will be entered in an electronic health record (www.digilugu.ee) and the iPatient portal (ipatsient.itk.ee) after four weeks at the latest.

In the event of a negative test result, further evaluation of the cervix is usually performed with an HPV test every five years.

In the event of a positive test result, a liquid-based cytology test (LBC-based Pap test) on the same specimen will be performed. You will be contacted within a month and, if necessary, further testing and treatment will be agreed upon. The results and medical case summary can be accessed via the electronic health record.

• An appointment for cervical cancer screening can be booked by calling 666 1900 or via the digital registration system iPatsient.
• The screening is performed at the Women's Clinic of East Tallinn Central Hospital at Ravi 18 and at the Women's Outpatient Clinic of the Tõnismäe unit at Hariduse 6.

• Screening is free of charge (including to uninsured patients).

More information on cervical cancer screening is available on the website of the Health Insurance Fund.