Cervical Smear Test

What does a cervical screening (smear) test check for?

It checks the health of the cells of the cervix (the entrance to the womb from the vagina).  Any abnormal cells detected can be treated and this can prevent development of cancer ofthe cervix.  If a sample shows abnormal cells, it will also be tested for high risk Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which can be linked to cancer of the cervix.

Who should have a smear test and how often?

We advise all women to have a smear test on an annual basis.  

The National Health Service (NHS) offers cervical screening tests every three years between the ages of 25 and 49 and every five years between the ages of 50 and 64.  The NHS only recommends smears over the age of 65 for women who have had abnormal tests recently.  We are able to offer smears to all  women including those under the age of 25, and those over the age of 65.

How should you organise having a smear test?

We can easily arrange for this to be done here at our surgery with one of our GPs.  It is best to have the test done when you are mid cycle (usually 14 days from the start of your last period).  We can also provide advice and help about related subjects such as Contraception, HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy), HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) vaccination, breast ultrasounds, mammography, bone density and general health.

What should you do if you have had a smear test recently?

If you have had a smear test recently, we would very much like to know the date and the result so that we can update our records.  Ideally, we would like a copy of the written result.

Further information:

Further information is available via:

NHS Choices:  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/

Or  this link on the useful websites tab:

https://www.chelsealondondoctor.com/useful-websites-chelsea-medical-london-sw3#5