We want to ensure all women know how cervical cancer can be prevented. This means:
- Attending cervical screening when invited
- Knowing the symptoms of cervical cancer and seeking medical advice if experiencing any
- Taking up the HPV vaccination if aged 11-18
- Knowing where to find support and further information
Don’t Let Embarrassment Stop You from Getting Your Smear Test!

Cervical screening prevents 75% of cervical cancers from developing, yet did you know that almost one in three women across the UK don’t take up their Cervical Screening Invitation? This month is a great opportunity to increase the number of people attending their test by raising awareness of its importance.
All women in the UK aged 25 to 49 are invited for a screening test every three years and those aged 50 to 64 are invited every five years.
Since almost all cases of the disease are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, vaccines that protect against the virus could prevent the vast majority of cases. Moreover, regular Smear tests can catch and lead to treatment of the disease at the precancerous stage.This simple test can help stop cervical cancer before it starts, so it’s an incredibly important test.
Linda Hayes, Cervical Screening Outreach Nurse at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust said: “If you have received an invitation to go for your routine cervical smear then please do not ignore the letter. The test should take no more than 15 minutes and could save your life.”
Cervical Screening or Smear Tests as many of us refer to them are a procedure that checks the health of your cervix. The procedure is carried out by our trained, experienced Practice Nurse. Cervical Screening is NOT a test for cancer, it is a test to help prevent cancer by detecting any changes to the cells of the cervix. Being screened regularly means any abnormal changes in the cells can be identified and if necessary, treated to stop cancer developing.
To book your cervical screening appointment with a practice nurse please contact your GP practice today!
What happens when you go for your cervical screening?
The screening test usually takes around 5 minutes to carry out.
You’ll be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on a couch, although you can remain fully dressed if you are wearing a loose skirt/dress.
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.
The nurse or doctor will then use a small soft brush to gently collect some cells from the surface of your cervix. Although the procedure can be a little uncomfortable, it shouldn’t be painful. However, if you do find it painful let the nurse know as they may be able to reduce your discomfort.
Once the sample is taken, nurse will close the curtain allowing you to dress whilst they prepare the sample to be sent off to the laboratory.
The cell sample is then sent off to a laboratory for analysis and you should receive the result within 2 weeks.
Many women are nervous and embarrassed about the process of cervical screening, but there is no need to be, nurses carry out these tests every day and we are dedicated to making the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If it would help minimise your worries, you are also welcome to bring a chaperone to your appointment too.
If you would like to know more about cervical screening including a brief video on how cervical screening is done, please visit the following websites: