Are you worried about getting a smear test / cervical screening, or unsure whether you should book one? We at ScreenMe have you covered, and are here to calm any worries you have about cervical screening.

What does cervical screening check for?

• Cervical cancer
• HPV
• Any abnormalities
• Fibroids
• General vaginal health

When should I book a screening?

• All women will be invited for a cervical screening just before they turn 25
• After this, you should get a screening every 3 years from 25 to 49, and then every 5 years from 50 to 64; and then only one more post 65 if one of your last three tests was abnormal.
• If you notice any of the abnormal symptoms or observe a change that is not normal for you.

What does the doctor do in my screening?

• Examine the vulva (outside of your vagina).
• Feel the inside of your vagina with 2 fingers (while wearing gloves) while pressing on your tummy. They may also check your rectum. This is to check for any lumps or abnormalities. 
• Gently put in a speculum (a smooth, tube-shaped tool) into your vagina so they can see your cervix.
• Take a small sample of cells from your cervix using a soft brush.

Does cervical screening hurt?

In short, no. Cervical screening is a check that many doctors do regularly, and while it may feel a little uncomfortable, it should not be painful.

I’m still scared about going to my cervical screening!

There is honestly no need to worry when going for your cervical screening. All women over the age of 25 should have had at least one screening, so you most definitely are not alone in this!

You are also allowed to bring a friend, family member, or one of the staff members where you are being screened, into the room with you — this should help you to feel even more at ease during this short check-up.

It is also possible to request a female doctor for your visit, which will not be a problem at all.

Tips for your cervical screening

• Don’t be afraid to ask the GP to explain things to you. They understand this is a sensitive topic and will be more than happy to explain things multiple times to you.
• If you have been experiencing unusual symptoms, then writing down a diary of what has happened, what has changed, and when this happened is a brilliant way to make sure your doctor fully understands your situation.
• Be honest with your GP. GPs cannot read your mind, so to get the most from your appointment then be honest with them about how you are feeling, what your concerns are, or if there is anything else you want to discuss or don’t understand.
• If you think you won’t remember what the GP has said, then write it down, or ask them to write it down for you.
• Bring a friend or family member if you are nervous! The screening shouldn’t take long, and chatting to someone while your doctor examines you can be a great way to take your mind off your nerves.

What happens next?

• The majority of the time your GP will not think that you need any further tests.
  • Your symptoms may be due to other conditions such as Endometriosis or fibroids, which your GP can explain to you.
  • If your symptoms continue, then make sure to make another appointment with your GP.           
• Your doctor may refer you to a specialist for further tests if they believe you need further investigations.
  • This doesn’t mean that you definitely have cervical cancer, but they may just need to double check everything.

We hope that this puts your mind at ease if you have a cervical screening coming up, or if you just want to know a bit more about the process!

Jessica Hobbis

See also  Tips for ovarian health