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The NHS is #StillHereToHelp With Cervical Screening
Understanding Cervical Screening
Cervical screening, often referred to as a smear test, is a crucial part of women's healthcare in the United Kingdom. Managed by the NHS, this preventative measure aims to detect abnormal cells on the cervix that could develop into cervical cancer if left untreated. Women aged 25 to 64 are invited for regular screening, providing an essential opportunity for early detection and intervention.
Importance of Regular Screening
Regular cervical screening can save lives. It is estimated that the NHS cervical screening program prevents around 70% of cervical cancer deaths. The test identifies potentially harmful changes before they become cancerous, enabling timely treatment and significantly improving outcomes. Despite the strain on health services caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the NHS is #StillHereToHelp ensure women have access to this vital service.
The Process of Cervical Screening
The screening process is straightforward and typically takes only a few minutes. A small sample of cells is taken from the cervix using a soft brush. This sample is then sent to a lab for testing. It’s normal to feel a bit uncomfortable during the test, but it shouldn’t be painful. Women are encouraged to attend their appointments and speak to their healthcare provider if they have any concerns or questions about the procedure.
NHS Safety Measures
The NHS has implemented robust safety measures to ensure that cervical screening appointments are safe for everyone. Clinics and healthcare providers are adhering to stringent hygiene protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), regular cleaning of facilities, and social distancing where possible. If you receive an invitation for cervical screening, rest assured that every precaution has been taken to protect your health.
How to Book Your Screening
If you are due for a cervical screening or have missed your appointment due to the pandemic, contact your GP to book an appointment. The NHS is committed to helping you stay healthy, and rescheduling your screening is a step towards safeguarding your well-being. Whether you’re attending your first screening or a follow-up, the NHS is ready to support you.
Conclusion
The NHS remains dedicated to women's health, and cervical screening is a key component of this commitment. By attending your screening appointments, you are taking a proactive step towards preventing cervical cancer. Remember, the NHS is #StillHereToHelp you maintain your health and well-being through regular cervical screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cervical screening?
Cervical screening (a smear test) checks the health of your cervix. It’s a way to help prevent cancer by finding and treating any abnormalities early.
Who is eligible for cervical screening?
In the UK, women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited for regular cervical screening.
How often should I get screened?
You should get screened every 3 years if you’re aged 25 to 49, and every 5 years if you’re aged 50 to 64.
How can I book a cervical screening appointment?
You can book an appointment by contacting your GP surgery or local sexual health clinic.
Is cervical screening painful?
Cervical screening might be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. If you experience pain, let the nurse or doctor know.
How long does the procedure take?
The cervical screening procedure itself takes about 5 minutes, although you may be in the appointment for around 10 to 15 minutes.
What should I do to prepare for a cervical screening?
You don't need to do much preparation. It's best to avoid being on your period, and you may feel more comfortable wearing a skirt or dress.
What if I miss my screening appointment?
If you miss your appointment, contact your GP surgery to reschedule it.
What do the results mean?
Results will indicate if your cervix is healthy, or if you need further tests. An abnormal result doesn’t mean you have cancer but that further tests are needed.
Are there any risks associated with cervical screening?
Cervical screening is very safe. The main risk is feeling a bit of discomfort during the procedure.
Can I refuse cervical screening?
Yes, cervical screening is voluntary. However, it’s an important test that could help detect health issues early.
What happens if abnormal cells are found?
If abnormal cells are found, you will be called back for further tests, which may include a colposcopy.
Can pregnant women have cervical screening?
Routine cervical screening is usually postponed until after pregnancy. However, if you’re due for a screening and it’s urgent, consult your GP.
Is there a charge for cervical screening?
No, cervical screening is free of charge under the NHS.
What happens during the screening?
A small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix using a soft brush. These cells are then tested for abnormalities.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Cervical screening: Q&A | NHS
- NHS - Cervical Screening Overview Provides comprehensive information on cervical screening including what it is, who it's for, and when it's offered.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust - Cervical Screening Offers detailed insights into cervical screening, addressing common questions and concerns that individuals might have.
- Cancer Research UK - Cervical Screening (Smear Test) Explains the cervical screening process, its importance in early detection of cervical cancer, and what to expect during a smear test.
- The Eve Appeal - Cervical Screening Information Focuses on raising awareness of gynaecological cancers and provides specific information about cervical screening.
Useful links from: Cervical screening for transgender men | NHS
- NHS - Cervical screening for transgender and non-binary people Information from the NHS about cervical screening specific to transgender and non-binary individuals, including eligibility and what the process involves.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust - Information for trans men and non-binary people Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust provides detailed information on cervical screening tailored for transgender men and non-binary individuals, addressing common concerns and questions.
- Gendered Intelligence - Cervical Screening Gendered Intelligence offers guidance and support around cervical screening for transgender men and non-binary people, aiming to make the process more inclusive and accessible.
- LGBT Foundation - Trans People and Screening Programs The LGBT Foundation provides resources and support for transgender individuals accessing screening programs, including cervical screening, with an aim to promote inclusivity and health equity.
Useful links from: Don’t ignore your cervical screening invite | NHS
- NHS - Cervical Screening Comprehensive information from the NHS about cervical screening, including how it's done, the benefits, and who is eligible.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust - Cervical Screening (Smear Test) A resource from Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust providing detailed information on cervical screening, addressing common concerns and frequently asked questions.
- Cancer Research UK - Cervical Screening (Smear Test) Cancer Research UK provides insights into cervical screening, its importance in preventing cervical cancer, and what to expect during the procedure.
- NHS - Cervical Screening Leaflet Downloadable leaflet from the NHS offering key details about cervical screening, aimed at helping individuals understand the importance and process of the test.
Useful links from: Cervical screening: how it's done | NHS
- NHS - Cervical screening: How it's done Overview by the NHS on how cervical screening (smear test) is performed, including preparation, the procedure itself, and what to expect afterward.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust - Cervical Screening: The test itself Provided by Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust, this page offers detailed information on what happens during a cervical screening test, helping to alleviate any concerns.
- Cancer Research UK - Cervical screening tests Cancer Research UK provides an in-depth look at the cervical screening test, including how it is done, what the results might mean, and follow-up procedures.
- NHS Inform - Cervical screening NHS Inform's page on cervical screening details the appointment process, preparation tips, the procedure itself, and follow-up information.
Useful links from: Cervical screening: what to expect | NHS
- NHS - Cervical screening overview Provides comprehensive information on what cervical screening is, why it's done, who should get it, and how to prepare for your appointment.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust - Cervical Screening Information Offers detailed support and information for women undergoing cervical screening, including what to expect before, during, and after the test.
- Cancer Research UK - Cervical Screening Explains the importance of cervical screening, how the test is performed, and provides statistics and research findings.
- NHS - What happens at cervical screening Details the step-by-step process of what happens during a cervical screening appointment, including tips for feeling more comfortable.
Useful links from: NHSGGC - Cervical Cancer Screening - English
- NHSGGC Cervical Screening The official NHSGGC page providing detailed information on cervical screening, including what the test involves, who is eligible, and how to make an appointment.
- NHS - Cervical Screening The NHS website offers comprehensive information on cervical screening, guidelines for patients, FAQs, and advice on what to expect during the screening.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust provides resources and support for those undergoing cervical screening, including educational materials, personal stories, and an expert helpline.
- Cancer Research UK - Cervical Screening Cancer Research UK's section on cervical screening explains the testing process, benefits and risks, and research developments in cervical cancer prevention and early detection.
Useful links from: Booked in for your smear test (cervical screening) and not sure what to expect?
- NHS - Cervical Screening Comprehensive information on cervical screening, including what it is, who should have it, and what happens during the procedure.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust - What to Expect at Your Smear Test Detailed guidance on what to expect from your cervical screening (smear test) appointment, providing reassurance and practical tips.
- NHS Inform - Cervical Screening Scotland’s health information service providing details on cervical screening, how to prepare, and what the results may mean.
- Cancer Research UK - Cervical Screening Information from Cancer Research UK on cervical screening, including how it can prevent cervical cancer and what to expect during the test.
Useful links from: Cervical screening (smear test) – what’s it all about?
- NHS - Cervical screening overview Comprehensive guide by the NHS covering who should get screened, what happens during cervical screening (a smear test), and how to understand your results.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust - Smear test guide Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust provides an in-depth guide about cervical screening, including what to expect, frequently asked questions, and support for those feeling anxious.
- Cancer Research UK - Cervical screening (smear test) Information from Cancer Research UK about the importance of cervical screening, how it is done, and what the results mean, along with risks and benefits.
- NHS Inform - Cervical screening NHS Inform provides a detailed explanation of cervical screening in Scotland, including why it's important, who should go, and what to expect during the test.
Useful links from: What is cervical screening (smear test)?
- NHS - Cervical Screening Official NHS page providing comprehensive information on cervical screening (smear tests), including eligibility, the screening process, and what results mean.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust - Cervical Screening Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust's dedicated page to cervical screening (smear tests), offering guidance, support, and personal stories.
- Cancer Research UK - Cervical Screening Cancer Research UK's detailed information on cervical screening, including the benefits, the screening procedure, and understanding results.
- Public Health England - Cervical Screening: Helping You Decide Public Health England's guide to cervical screening, designed to help individuals make an informed decision about attending.
Useful links from: Accessing cervical screening with the right support for people with a learning disability
- NHS - Cervical Screening Comprehensive guide on cervical screening provided by the NHS, including what to expect, why it's important, and how to prepare.
- NHS - Help for People with Learning Disabilities - Cervical Screening NHS resource designed to support people with learning disabilities in understanding and accessing cervical screening services, including easy-read guides and support materials.
- Mencap - Cervical Screening Mencap's dedicated page on cervical screening for women with learning disabilities, offering information, tips, and resources to help them access these important health services.
- Jo's Trust - Accessing Cervical Screening with a Learning Disability Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust provides specific advice and information for women with learning disabilities to overcome barriers to cervical screening, including tailored support and advocacy.
Useful links from: Health Screenings You Should Know About
- NHS Health Check The NHS Health Check is a free health check-up for adults in England aged 40-74. It helps to prevent major health conditions including stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia.
- Cancer Research UK – Screening Cancer Research UK provides detailed information on different types of cancer screening, explaining their purpose, eligibility, and what to expect during the process. The site aims to raise awareness and knowledge about the importance of early detection.
- Breast Cancer Now – Breast Screening This section on the Breast Cancer Now website offers comprehensive information on breast cancer screening, including the benefits of early detection, how screening works, and what you can expect during a mammogram.
- Diabetes UK – Screening for Diabetes Diabetes UK provides information on the importance of screening for type 2 diabetes, including details on risk factors, the screening process, and the steps you can take to lower your risk of developing the condition.
Useful links from: Understanding the NHS: How to Access Services
- NHS - How to access NHS services in England Comprehensive guide on how to access NHS services, including primary care, hospital services, emergency care, and more.
- Mind - Mental Health Charity A UK charity providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Includes a range of resources and information on accessing mental health services.
- Citizens Advice - Help with health costs Citizens Advice offers guidance on how to get financial help with health costs including prescription charges, dental services, eye care and travel costs.
- British Heart Foundation - Getting the treatment you need The British Heart Foundation provides detailed information about accessing heart-related treatments and navigating NHS services for heart conditions.
Useful links from: Children's Vaccination Schedule
- NHS - Vaccinations Official NHS page providing comprehensive information on the vaccination schedule for children, detailing what vaccines are given and when.
- NHS - Immunisation schedule NHS's detailed immunisation schedule for babies, offering guidance for parents on what vaccines their child will need in their early years.
- Meningitis Now - Vaccine Guide Meningitis Now provides a guide to vaccines, including those for children, aimed at preventing meningitis and providing essential vaccination information.
- Vaccination UK Vaccination UK offers resources and support for immunisation, including schedules and information specifically tailored for the UK.
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