I had my #SmearTest (Pap test) today and you should too! Cervical screening is vital to help catch any abnormalities early and help prevent cervical cancer – I won’t lie it was a little uncomfortable but it took less than 15 mins & is so important!
To raise awareness I’m sharing some FAQs from the Cancer Research UK Science Blog. You can also find out more via Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust
1. Who’s it for?
Cervical screening is for everyone with a cervix, regardless of sexual or gender identity. This includes anyone who was born female – in the UK it’s offered to those aged 25-64. And you’ll need to be registered with a doctor to be invited.
2. What happens?
It’s usually done by a practice nurse at a doctor’s surgery. After a quick chat, the nurse will ask the patient to lie on their back with their knees raised and parted. They then use a speculum, which opens the vagina, to be able to see the cervix.
A small, soft brush is used to collect some cells from the cervix. The cells that have been collected are sent off to a lab to check for any abnormal changes.
3. What if I’m embarrassed?
It’s normal to feel self-conscious, especially on the first visit.
“It can be reassuring for women to know that most of these tests are done by practice nurses, who are very experienced explaining about and doing cervical screening tests. This can be very important in helping to make women feel comfortable and relaxed.”
When booking the appointment, you can ask for a man or woman to do the test. You can also take someone with you into the appointment (this can be a friend or family member, or someone who works at the practice).
4. Does it hurt?
Most people won’t experience pain from cervical screening, but sometimes the speculum can be uncomfortable – you can always ask the nurse to stop at any point if you feel pain or too much discomfort.
5. Does it take long?
Most cervical screening appointments are quicker than a normal doctor’s appointment, and you’ll be able to carry on with your day afterwards.
Some practices offer cervical screening at weekends or outside normal working hours.
After the test, the nurse will let you know when to expect your results, which will be posted to your home address!
It’s THAT easy 🤷🏻♀️ – Girls get yours booked if you’re due! 💄
