Cervical Screening Test

A cervical screening test (smear test) is a method of preventing cervical cancer by detecting abnormal cells in the cervix (lower part of the womb).

Cervical screening is not a test for cancer, but it is a test to check the health of the cervix. Most women's test results show that everything is normal. But for one in 20 women, the test will show some changes in the cells of the cervix.

Most of these changes will not lead to cervical cancer and the cells will go back to normal on their own. In some cases, the abnormal cells need to be treated to prevent them becoming a problem later.

The Screening Programme

In the UK, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women under 35 (after breast cancer). About 2,800 women a year are diagnosed with cervical cancer.

The NHS Cervical Screening Programme aims to reduce the number of women who develop cervical cancer and the number of women who die from the disease.

All women aged between 25 and 64 are invited for cervical screening. Being screened regularly means that any abnormal changes in the cervix can be identified early on and, if necessary, treated to stop cancer developing.

It is estimated that early detection and treatment can prevent up to 75% of cervical cancers from developing.

Questions And Answers

What is cervical screening?
It is a simple test to check the health of the neck of the womb. This can pick up early changes which could develop into cervical cancer if not found and treated.

Who is cervical screening for?
The test is available to all women aged 25-64 who have a cervix (neck of the womb). It is particularly important for women who have ever had sex. They are much more likely to be at risk than virgins. Women aged 25-49 should have a test every three years, and women aged 50-64 every five years.

Does it hurt?
No, but it may be a bit uncomfortable for some women. Any discomfort lasts for only a few minutes - and it could save you having more serious problems later.

How long does it take?
It takes only a few minutes and can be done by a trained nurse in your own GP practice or in a CaSH/family planning clinic.

What causes cervical cancer?
Over 95% of cervical cancers are caused by a virus infection, HPV, which is very common in both men and women. Usually it doesn’t cause any symptoms, and is cleared naturally. In a small group of women with certain
types of HPV, the virus remains, and over time causes cell changes in the cervix.

I missed my last test. Can I still go?
Yes, if you are overdue for a cervical screening test you can have one at any time - just contact your GP practice or go to a CaSH/family planning clinic.

I’m afraid to find out if I have cancer
The test is not about finding cancer - it’s to rule out any of the very earliest changes in the neck of the womb which are not cancer but which could develop into cancer later if not discovered and dealt with. Prevention
is better than cure.

Will my test result be normal?
About 95% of tests are normal. Of the remainder, about 4% require more regular follow up than every three or five years. 1% require further investigation by colposcopy examination at your local hospital. This is a simple out-patient examination of the neck of the womb during which any abnormal cells can usually be treated.

What if I’ve had a hysterectomy?
Cervical screening is not needed for women who have had their cervix removed (total hysterectomy). You may need to talk to your GP practice about this.

How long does it take to get the result of a cervical screening test?
You should get the result of your cervical screening test within two weeks by post.

What if I’m pregnant?
If you are pregnant then the test can wait until after your pregnancy. If you are pregnant and your last test was abnormal then you should speak to the sample-taker nurse at your doctor’s practice.

Why take the risk?
The best way to protect yourself against cancer of the cervix is to have regular cervical screening tests. If you are due for a test, contact your GP surgery today to make an appointment or go to a CaSH/family planning clinic and ask for a cervical screening test.