About cervical screening/smear tests

What is a smear test?

• A smear test is not a test for diagnosing cervical cancer. It is a test to check the health of the cervix. Cells are brushed or wiped from the surface of the cervix by your doctor or nurse using a special soft brush.²⁴ The sample of cells is then examined under the microscope to find out early on whether there are any cell changes in the cervix. Some cell changes can be an early warning of cervical cancer.³⁰

Who should have it?

• Cervical screening is available from aged 25 years in England and from aged 20 years in the rest of the UK.¹⁷

How often should I have it?

• Regular smear testing is the best way of detecting changes in the cells of the cervix that could go on to develop into cervical cancer. The age and frequency that women are invited for screening depends on where you live in the United Kingdom:¹⁷

  England:

  25-49 years old - every three years
  50-64 – every five years

  Northern Ireland:

  20-64 years old - every three to five years

  Scotland:

  20-60 years old - every three years

  Wales:

  20-64 – every three years

What happens during a smear test?

• During a smear test a doctor or nurse will take some sample cells from your cervix which is located at the neck of the womb at the top of the vagina. They do this by gently putting an instrument called a speculum into the vagina so that they can see the cervix clearly. Cells are brushed or wiped off the surface of the cervix using a special soft brush. The test just takes a few minutes. The sample cells will be sent away to a laboratory to be examined under a microscope for possible abnormal cells. If any abnormalities are found, you will be contacted about any further tests or possible treatment.²⁴

Does it hurt?

• Most women agree that, although perhaps a little uncomfortable, the test does not hurt and is over very quickly. Try to relax as it may be more uncomfortable if you are tense.²⁴

How will I get my results?

• At the test, the doctor or nurse will tell you how, where and approximately when you will get your results.

I have had an abnormal smear test result – does this mean I have cancer?

• It can be very distressing to get an abnormal smear test result. However, it is important to keep in mind that this does not necessarily mean that you have cervical cancer' It means that some cells found on your smear test were slightly abnormal and that if they were left untreated they could go on to develop into cervical cancer. You may be asked for a second smear test or, in some cases, you may be referred for a colposcopy. Your doctor or nurse will advise you on what happens next and will be able to answer any questions you have.²⁴