Cervical screening, often referred to as a smear test, is a medical procedure designed to protect individuals from cervical cancer. The test is not intended to diagnose cancer but to prevent it by detecting early changes in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
Regular cervical screening is recommended for all people with a cervix aged 25 to 64, as it is one of the best ways to identify any abnormal changes early, significantly reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Cervical screening involves collecting a small sample of cells from the surface of the cervix. This procedure is crucial because it detects the presence of high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a group of viruses that can cause changes in cervical cells. These changes, if left untreated, could potentially develop into cervical cancer.
If the test detects a specific type of HPV which is “high risk,” then the sample will be checked for changes to the cells in the cervix. Doctors can then treat you before these cells can turn into cervical cancer.
If you are between the ages of 25 and 64 and are registered with a GP, you will receive an invitation letter from them asking you to come in for cervical screening when appropriate. You should book an appointment as soon as you receive this letter.
On the day of your appointment, wear comfortable clothing. You may want to choose something like a skirt or a long jumper that you can leave on during the test.
Certain factors increase the risk of developing cervical cell changes and, subsequently, cervical cancer.
Key risk factors include:
The NHS provides clear guidelines on when individuals should get screened based on age:
Getting cervical screening is a personal choice; you don’t have to get tested if you don’t want to. However, cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect against cervical cancer.
If you are between 25 and 65, and you want to talk to a GP or health care professional about cervical screening, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. They will be able to provide you with more detailed information and offer advice based on your age and health history. You can also talk to a health practitioner if you don’t want to be invited for cervical screening.
If you live in London and aren’t yet registered for a GP, you can click here to register at any time.
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