Cervical screening: what to expect | NHS

What is cervical screening?

Cervical screening is a health test for women. It checks for signs of illness in a part called the cervix. The cervix is inside a woman's body. It helps find problems early, so they can be treated. Doctors use a small, soft brush to do the test. It does not take long.

If you have questions, you can ask a doctor or nurse. You can also use pictures or videos to help understand better.

Who needs a cervical screening test?

Women need a cervical screening test. This test checks the cervix. The cervix is inside a woman’s body. It helps keep women healthy.

Women aged 25 to 64 should have this test. This is important to catch any problems early.

If you are unsure, ask your doctor or nurse for help. They can explain why the test is important.

You can use tools like reminder apps or calendars to help remember your test date.

How often should I get a cervical screening test?

Cervical screening tests help keep your cervix healthy. The cervix is the lower part of your womb.

It's important to have these tests.

Here's how often you should go:

• If you’re aged 25 to 49: Get tested every 3 years.
• If you’re aged 50 to 64: Get tested every 5 years.
• If you’re older than 65: Ask your doctor if you need more tests.

Here are some tips to help:

• Set reminders on your phone or calendar.
• Ask a family member or friend to remind you.
• Keep a health notebook to track your tests and dates.

If you have any questions, talk to your doctor or nurse. They are there to help you!

What happens during a cervical screening?

A cervical screening checks the health of your cervix. The cervix is the lower part of your uterus (womb).

During the screening, a doctor or nurse will gently collect some cells from your cervix using a small brush. This does not take long.

You might feel a little uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. Try to relax and take deep breaths to help you feel calm.

This screening is very important because it helps find any changes in the cells so you can stay healthy.

If you feel worried, you can ask someone you trust to come with you for support. You can also talk to the doctor or nurse before the screening to ask any questions you have.

Does cervical screening hurt?

Cervical screening is a test to check the health of your cervix. Some people might feel a little uncomfortable, but it should not hurt. If you do feel pain, tell the nurse or doctor. They can help make you feel better.

Here are a few tips to make it easier:

• Take slow, deep breaths to relax.
• You can ask a friend or someone you trust to come with you.
• Listen to music or hold a stress ball if it helps you feel calm.

How can I get ready for a cervical screening test?

Cervical screening is a test to help keep you healthy. Here are some simple steps to get ready:

• Wear a skirt or loose pants. This can make it easier during the test.
• Try to book the test when you are not on your period.
• If you feel nervous, talk to the nurse or doctor. They can help you feel better.
• Bring a friend or family member if you want support.

Support tools: You can use books or videos that explain the test. Look for pictures or cartoons that show what will happen. This can help you know what to expect.

Can I have a cervical screening if I am pregnant?

How long will it take to get my cervical screening results?

After you have your cervical screening test, you usually get your results in a few weeks.

Here are some tools that can help:

• Ask a friend or family member to help you understand the results.
• Use a calendar to mark the day you had the test so you know when to expect the results.
• If you have questions, you can call the doctor's office and ask them.

What do abnormal cervical screening results mean?

What can I do if I feel scared about cervical screening?

It's okay to feel scared about cervical screening. Here are some things that might help:

• Talk to someone you trust, like a family member or friend.
• Ask your doctor or nurse questions before the screening. Knowing what will happen may help you feel better.
• Practice deep breathing or relaxation exercises to calm down.
• Bring a comforting item with you, like a favorite toy or book.

Remember, it's important to take care of your health. You can do it!

Do I need a cervical screening if I got the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine helps protect you from the virus that can cause cervical cancer. But it does not protect you from all types of HPV.

Cervical screening helps find early signs of cancer, even if you have had the vaccine.

It is still important to get cervical screenings regularly, even if you had the HPV vaccine. It can help keep you safe.

If you find it hard to read this, you can ask someone you trust to help explain it to you. You can also use simple tools like text-to-speech programs to read it out loud.

Can I have a cervical screening after my womb is removed?

If you have had surgery to remove your womb, called a hysterectomy, you might wonder about cervical screening.

Here is what you need to know:

• If doctors removed your cervix during the surgery, you usually don't need cervical screening.
• If your cervix is still there, you may still need screening. Ask your doctor to be sure.

If you are unsure, talk to your doctor. They can help you understand what you need.

Using tools like pictures or simple words can also help you understand more about your health.

What if I miss my cervical screening appointment?

If you miss your cervical screening, don’t worry. Here’s what you can do:

• Call your doctor or clinic. You can make a new appointment.
• Ask someone you trust to help you. They can remind you about your appointment.

Remember, it’s okay to ask questions. Bring a friend or family member with you to your appointment if it makes you feel better.

Do you have to pay for a cervical screening test in the UK?

No, you do not have to pay. In the UK, a cervical screening test is free.

This test helps to check if your cervix (the opening to your womb) is healthy. Going for regular tests can help keep you well.

If you have questions or feel nervous, you can talk to your doctor or nurse. They can help you understand the process and what will happen during the test.

It might be helpful to bring a friend or family member with you for support.

Can I have a cervical screening during my period?

A cervical screening is a test. It checks your cervix. Your cervix is a part inside your body.

You can have the test during your period. But it might be better to wait until your period is over. This can make the test easier.

If you need help, you can ask a friend or family member. They can go with you to the test. You can also ask the nurse or doctor any questions you have.