What happens during a smear test?

The test is usually carried out by a nurse – you can request a female – at a GP practice, although some well woman clinics and sexual health clinics offer them too.

During your appointment, you will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on a couch, although you can usually remain fully clothed if you’re wearing a skirt.

The nurse will gently put an instrument called a speculum into your vagina. This holds the walls of the vagina open so the cervix can be seen.

A small soft brush will then be used to gently collect some cells from the surface of your cervix.

Does it hurt?

While some women find the procedure embarrassing or a little uncomfortable, for the majority it isn’t painful at all. If you do experience any physical discomfort, tell the doctor or nurse.

Sometimes easier said than done, relaxing as much as possible and taking slow, deep breaths is thought to make the process a lot better.

Can I have a smear test when I’m on my period?

It’s advised to have your test when you are not on your period so that a sample can be taken from the cervix without being diluted by menstrual blood.

If possible, you should try to book your appointment during the middle of your menstrual cycle (usually 14 days from the start of your last period), as this can ensure a better sample of cells is taken.

Do I still need to be screened if I’ve only had sex with women?

Yes. The HPV virus which causes cervical cancer can be transmitted between women as it’s passed through bodily fluids and skin-to-skin contact so it’s still advised that you attend.

What happens if there’s an abnormal result?

The results from your test should arrive two to six weeks following your appointment.

If they abnormal, you may be asked to go for a colposcopy – a procedure which effectively looks at the cervix with a magnifying glass so they can get a better look at the cells.

Depending on the results from this, you may need to attend for a follow-up appointment or if treatment is needed, it could be done there and then.

If this is the case, the cells will be removed and sent off to be tested. Six months later, you will be called back for a repeat cervical screening test, where they will check to see if you have high-risk of HPV.

If everything is fine, you will go back into the normal cycle of testing. However, some women may need further treatment.

#amberslaw #dontfearthesmear #cervicalcancerawareness