Cervical screening (smear test)
As part of the screening services, a cervical screening, also known as a smear test, is a procedure to detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could potentially develop into cervical cancer. It is an effective way to catch pre-cancerous changes early when they are most treatable.
Why get screened?
- Allows detection and removal of abnormal cervical cells before they turn cancerous
- Has helped reduce cervical cancer cases in the UK by 7% each year since the 1980s screening program began
- Estimated to prevent at least 2,000 cases of cervical cancer annually in the UK
When is screening offered?
- Women aged 25-49 are invited every 3 years
- Women aged 50-64 are invited every 5 years Females over 65 are only screened if recent results were abnormal
Booking a cervical screening appointment
You’ll be sent an invitation letter in the post when it’s time to book your cervical screening appointment.
Your invitation letter will tell you where you can go for cervical screening and how to book. Most cervical screening is done in a GP surgery by a female nurse or doctor. Call your GP to book an appointment with them.
The screening procedure:
- A nurse collects a sample of cells from the cervix using a small brush
- Your sample is checked in a lab for abnormal cell changes
- The simple procedure is usually quick and only causes mild discomfort
- Getting results
- Aim is to notify you of results within 14 days, but may sometimes take longer
- Contact your GP if you haven’t received results by the expected timeframe
Additional resources:
- Cervical screening – NHS
- NHS Cervical Screening Information
- Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust Support Helpline: 0808 802 8000
- Easy Read Cervical Screening Leaflet
Don’t hesitate to speak to your GP or nurse if you have any concerns about getting a cervical screening test. Early detection saves lives.