Millions of women across England are being offered a new way to complete cervical cancer screening from home as the NHS launches a major HPV self-testing programme.

From 25 August, women who have missed cervical screening appointments can be invited to order a free home-testing kit. The NHS says nearly 4 million women could benefit from the rollout.

The kit uses a simple vaginal swab that can be completed privately at home before being returned to an NHS laboratory for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) testing. Women who test positive will be offered appropriate follow-up through NHS services.

The initiative is designed to tackle some of the barriers that can discourage women from attending traditional screening appointments, including embarrassment, discomfort and difficulties finding time for an appointment.

Current screening uptake is below the NHS target, with around 68.8% of eligible women up to date, according to reports. Health leaders hope easier access will encourage more women to take part.

The NHS says increasing screening participation is an important part of its ambition to help eliminate cervical cancer as a cause of death by 2040.