Cervical Screening
What is a cervical smear?
The cervical smear checks the health of the cervix (the neck of the womb). A sample of cells is taken from the cervix to be sent to the laboratory for examination.
The need for a cervical smear
Many cases of cervical cancer can be prevented. Signs that it may develop can be spotted in advance and necessary treatment given.
Around 40 women die each year in NI from cervical cancer. Many of these women have never had a smear.
How often should I have a smear test?
You should have one at least once every 5 years between the ages of 20 and 65. Even if you have had a hysterectomy you may still need a smear test.
If you have never been sexually active you may not need a smear test but you should check this with your doctor.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sex
- Bleeding after the menopause
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
If you have any of the above symptoms you should see your doctor immediately.
The Smear Test
A doctor or nurse will carry out the test. You can request that a female takes your smear test if you wish. The test can be taken at your GP surgery or Family Planning clinic.
The Procedure
A doctor or nurse will insert a small instrument called a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. They will then use a smooth wooden or plastic spatula to pick up a few cells from your cervix. These cells will be examined under a microscope.
The laboratory will keep your results for 10 years. Your latest smear test will be compared to the ones you have had previously.
Most women find that it does not hurt. However some women find it uncomfortable and a few find it painful. The discomfort should only last a few minutes.
The doctor or nurse will tell you when and how to get your results.
You should not go for a smear test during your period. Instead make an appointment before or after it is due.
If You Are Called Back
You may be called back if your sample didn’t show up clearly and another smear may be needed. This is known as an “unsatisfactory” or “inadequate” result. However it may be that your result showed some slight changes in the cells of your cervix and this is called an abnormal result.
Abnormal Changes
You may be asked to come back for another smear. The cells may return to normal themselves but if the repeat smear still shows abnormal cells you may be asked to go to hospital for a closer examination.
Treatment is usually successful. It is a minor procedure usually done in an outpatient clinic.
The Benefits of Screening
Cervical smears save over 1000 lives in the UK per year and have halved the occurrence of cervical cancer since the 1980s. It reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer and can prevent 8 out of 10 cervical cancers developing. Regular smear tests greatly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.