The US Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has announced updated cervical cancer screening guidelines that include a new option for women to self-collect samples for screening.

The updated guideline also designates high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) testing, whether collected by a patient or a clinician, as the preferred screening modality for average-risk women ages 30-65, while retaining the option for cervical cytology (Pap) testing.

For average-risk women ages 21-29, cervical cancer screening using cervical cytology (Pap) is recommended.

Additionally, the guideline includes new language requiring most insurance plans to cover any additional testing needed to complete the screening process for malignancies. These insurance providers are required to begin coverage of this new screening guideline beginning January 1, 2027.

“These updates represent a significant step forward in cervical cancer screening and will improve screening rates and save lives,” said HRSA Administrator Tom Engels.

“By expanding screening options and removing cost barriers, we’re helping more women take an active role in protecting their health and their future.”

The addition of self-collection for cervical cancer screening to the HRSA guidelines follows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval of self-collection tests in 2024 and 2025, as well as a comprehensive evidence review showing that self-collection is as effective as clinician collection.

The inclusion of self-collection as a screening option also aligns with the American Cancer Society’s new cervical cancer screening guidelines released in December 2025. With January being Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, these new guidelines provide renewed optimism in the fight against cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer screening remains one of the most effective ways to detect precancerous changes and early-stage cancers. Self-collection for cervical cancer screening offers an innovative and accessible option to increase screening rates, reduce barriers to testing, and improve early detection. 

View the Federal Register Notice containing the full text of the Guideline

Access a newly released JAMA Viewpoint article on this topic.

Source: HRSA