How much does a private smear test cost in the UK? (2026)

A private smear test in the UK typically costs £220, anywhere from £104 to £360 across the 6 clinics we track. That usually covers HPV testing and your results – but not always, so it’s the first thing to check. Here’s the bit worth knowing before you pay anything: NHS cervical screening is free if you’re 25 to 64. So going private is really for people outside those ages, or who just want it sooner.

What’s included

• A quick consultation with a doctor or specialist nurse.
• Taking the cervical sample itself.
• HPV testing – usually included, but the one thing to nail down, because it swings the price.
• Your results and what they mean.

Some clinics quietly bill the consultation on top, so always ask exactly what’s in the price before you book.

Does where you live change the price?

Yep. Central London clinics sit right at the top end. The cheapest we’re tracking right now is Leicester (from £104). Have a look near you:

NHS vs private

The NHS screens everyone aged 25 to 64 for free, every 3 to 5 years. Private is for people who fall outside that – or who want an appointment sooner, or a bit of extra reassurance. But if you’re in the screening age range with no symptoms, the free NHS test is the exact same screening. Same test, same lab, no bill.

Why some people pay privately

• Under 25 with something on your mind (NHS screening starts at 25).
• Over 64, or wanting to screen more often than the NHS timetable.
• Speed and convenience – booking a slot that actually suits you.
• Peace of mind between routine screens.

One important thing: if you’ve got symptoms – like bleeding between periods or after sex – see a doctor rather than waiting on a routine screening test. A smear isn’t the right tool for looking into symptoms, so don’t let it hold you up.

What if the result is abnormal?

First off – minor cell changes are common and usually nothing serious, so try not to panic if you get that letter. The usual next step is a closer look at the cervix, called a colposcopy, available on the NHS or privately. Our colposcopy cost guide walks through that step in full. Here’s how the screening test and that follow-up stack up on live price:

What changes the cost

• Whether HPV testing is in the price.
• Whether the consultation’s bundled or charged on top.
• Doctor-led vs nurse-led appointment.
• Location – central London runs higher.

How to avoid overpaying

• Use free NHS screening if you’re 25-64 with no symptoms – no reason to pay.
• Confirm HPV testing’s included – that’s the main thing moving the price.
• Ask whether the consultation’s extra.
• Compare a few clinics – the gap between the cheapest and dearest we track is £256.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a private smear test cost?

Usually £104–£360, with a typical price around £220 – often with HPV testing and your results included.

Is cervical screening free on the NHS?

Yes – completely free from 25 to 64, every 3 to 5 years. Paying privately is mainly for people outside those ages, or who want it sooner.

Can I get a private smear test under 25?

Yes, you can. But if you’ve got symptoms, see a doctor rather than waiting on a routine screening test – it’s the wrong tool for that.

Does a private smear include HPV testing?

Often, but not always – and it makes a real dent in the price either way, so check it’s included before you book.

Ready to compare? See smear test prices by clinic, or browse every UK clinic we track for upfront pricing near you.