NHS screening programmes aim to detect problems early when treatment may be more effective.

They do not discriminate against gender identity or sexuality, cancer screening is for everyone. If you are eligible, it’s important to attend.

Screening is available through GP practices and some sexual health clinics. Taking part in screening programmes is your choice.

Breast

If you're a trans man, trans woman or are non-binary how you are invited will depend on the sex you are registered with at a GP:

  • if you're registered as female with a GP you will automatically be invited for breast screening
  • if you're registered as male with a GP you will not automatically be invited for breast screening

What do I do if I was assigned female at birth

If you've not had top surgery (surgery to remove the breasts and have male chest reconstruction), you can have breast screening.

If you've had top surgery, you may still have some breast tissue. But it's unlikely you will be able to have a mammogram. Talk to a GP if you notice any changes in your chest tissue or symptoms of breast cancer.

If you think you should have breast screening, but you are not invited automatically, talk to your GP surgery or call the local breast screening service to ask for an appointment.

What to do if I was assigned male at birth

If you've been taking feminising hormones for longer than 2 years, you can have breast screening. These hormones can increase your chance of getting breast cancer.

If you think you should have breast screening, but you are not invited automatically, talk to your GP surgery or call the local breast screening service to ask for an appointment.

Cervical Screening for Trans Men & Non-Binary People

Do I need cervical screening?

  • If you have a cervix, you should be invited for screening — regardless of your gender identity.
  • Screening checks for early cell changes caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) that could turn into cancer if untreated.
  • Even if you’re on testosterone, you may still need the test.

How to access screening

  1. Check your eligibility

    • In most places, invitations are sent to everyone with a cervix, usually starting from age 25 (this can vary by country).
    • If your NHS or GP record has “male” listed as your gender marker, you may not get automatic reminders — so you might need to ask for an appointment directly.

  2. Book the appointment

    • Contact your GP practice or local health centre.
    • Ask for a practice nurse who has experience with cervical screening.
    • Let them know if you’d like a smaller speculum, a longer appointment, or a chaperone.

  3. Prepare ahead

    • Some people find it helps to:
      • Bring a friend or supporter.
      • Write down your pronouns and chosen name to hand to the nurse.
      • Wear clothes that are easy to change in and out of.

 Common barriers (and how to navigate them)

  • Not being automatically invited: You can self-refer — ask your GP to add you to the screening recall system.
  • Fear of being misgendered: You can request that your name and pronouns are used. Some clinics will note this in your record.
  • Dysphoria or discomfort: You are in control — you can pause or stop the procedure at any time. Ask for extra time if needed.
  • Worried about confidentiality: Screening staff are trained to handle sensitive information respectfully.

Useful Links: