# Cervical cancer screening in Kenya: who, when and which test

_In Kenya, cervical screening starts at 25: an HPV test every 5 years is preferred, or VIA or a Pap smear every 3 years where HPV testing is not..._

Canonical: https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/health/cervical-cancer/screening

Author: My Wellness Health, Editorial team · Reviewed by: the My Wellness Health clinical team on 7 Oct 2026

Last updated: 7 Oct 2026 · Published by My Wellness Health — Preventive Healthcare & Care Navigation

> In Kenya, cervical screening starts at 25: an HPV test every 5 years is preferred, or VIA or a Pap smear every 3 years where HPV testing is not available. Women living with HIV screen every year.

**Age to start cervical screening in Kenya:** 25
_An HPV test every 5 years is preferred. Ministry of Health Kenya._

**Cervical cancer: at a glance**

| Who should get checked | How it is checked | How we help | Fee |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Women under 25: routine screening is not recommended | HPV test, VIA/VILI or Pap smear | Cervical cancer risk assessment | Cancer risk assessments, KES 300 |

## Cervical cancer screening in Kenya: who, when and which test: your questions answered

**Q: What is recommended for women under 25?**

A: Routine screening is not recommended.

**Q: What is recommended for women aged 25 to 65?**

A: An HPV test every 5 years is the preferred test.

**Q: What is recommended for women aged 25 to 65 where HPV testing is not available?**

A: VIA or a Pap smear every 3 years.

**Q: What is recommended for women living with HIV?**

A: Screen from diagnosis, and more often: VIA every year.

**Q: What is recommended for women over 65?**

A: Decided individually with a clinician.

**Q: Which test is used?**

A: HPV test, VIA/VILI or Pap smear.

**Q: What if the result is not normal?**

A: A positive HPV test usually leads to a VIA check to look at the cervix. Abnormal cells can often be treated the same day with cryotherapy or thermal ablation. LEEP or a referral to a gynaecologist if the area is larger. A repeat test at the interval your clinician sets.

**Q: What does it cost?**

A: The Social Health Authority benefit tariffs list an HPV test at KES 3,600 and cryotherapy or thermal ablation at KES 3,000, at facilities that offer them. Screening is also often free during county campaigns.

**Q: How can My Wellness Health help?**

A: Not sure what is due for you? The cervical cancer risk assessment asks about 38 questions: HPV vaccination and test results, past treatment of abnormal cells, HIV status, sexual and pregnancy history, contraception and screening history. It flags warning signs at once and tells you which test is due: an HPV test, VIA or a Pap smear. It costs KES 300. A care navigator calls you back within 2 hours (Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm) to book what you need at a facility that suits your budget and location.

This page is health information to help you understand risks and next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician. My Wellness Health is not a diagnostic service: we help you understand your risk and connect you with the right screening and care. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999 or 112. If you are thinking of harming yourself, call Befrienders Kenya on +254 722 178 177 or the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line 1199.

## Sources

- [My Wellness Health](https://www.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/)
- [Ministry of Health Kenya, National Cancer Screening and Early Diagnosis Guidelines](https://www.iccp-portal.org/resources/national-cancer-screening-and-early-diagnosis-guidelines)
- [Social Health Authority, Benefit tariffs](https://sha.go.ke/benefit-tariffs/)

## More on this condition

- [Cervical cancer: signs, risks and checks in Kenya](https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/health/cervical-cancer)
- [How to lower your risk of cervical cancer](https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/health/cervical-cancer/prevention)