Cervical screening, which used to be called smear test, is a test to check the health of the cervix and help prevent cervical cancer. It’s offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64.
Cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer.
Cervical screening checks a sample of cells from your cervix for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). These types of HPV can cause abnormal changes to the cells in your cervix and are called “high risk” types of HPV.
If high risk types of HPV are found during screening, the sample of cells is also checked for abnormal cell changes. If abnormal cells are found, they can be treated so they do not get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.
All women and people with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64 should go for regular cervical screening.
You’ll get an invitation through the NHS App, by text or by letter asking you to make an appointment.
Trans men and non-binary people with a cervix are eligible for cervical screening. How you’re invited will depend on the sex you’re registered with at a GP surgery.
Booking a cervical screening appointment
You’ll be sent an invitation through the NHS App, by text or by letter when it’s time to book your cervical screening appointment. Your invitation 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 surgery to book an appointment with them. You might be able to book the appointment online.
Things you can try to make the cervical screening test easier
Do
- wear something you can leave on during the test, like a skirt or long jumper
- bring someone with you for support
- try breathing exercises to help you relax – ask the nurse about these
- ask the nurse to use a smaller speculum
- ask the nurse about lying in a different position – such as on your side with your knees pulled up to your chest
- bring something to listen to or read during the test
Don’t
- do not feel pressured to keep going – you can ask to stop the test at any time
- try not to be afraid or embarrassed to talk to the nurse – telling them how you feel will help them understand what kind of support you might need
Your cervical screening results are usually sent to you through the NHS App, by text or by letter. Sometimes you may be asked to call the GP surgery to get your results.
The nurse or doctor will tell you when you can expect your results. If you’ve waited longer than you expected, call your GP surgery to see if they have any updates.
Try not to worry if it is taking a long time to get your results. It does not mean anything is wrong, and most people will have a normal result.
Further Information and Support
- NHS – Cervical Screening
- Cervical Screening FAQs – Macmillan
- For more information and support about going for cervical screening, you can contact The Eve Appeal by:
- Helpline: 0808 802 0019
- Ask Eve Nurse Information Service
- Support for LGBT people
- Support for people with vulval pain
- Support for people with a learning disability