What does a Cervical Smear Test involve?
What is a Cervical Smear Test?
A cervical smear test, also known as cervical screening, checks the health of the cervix (the base of the uterus or womb) and helps prevent cancer.
What does it involve?
A medical professional uses a soft brush to gently collect cells from the cervix and surrounding area. The cells are then placed in a container and sent to a lab for testing.
What is it looking for?
The test checks for high-risk types of HPV, which can cause cervical cancer. It can also detect precancerous cells, infections, or inflammation.
Eligibility and Frequency
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Screening starts at age 25 and continues until age 64
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You’ll receive an invitation letter from the screening programme from age 24 years and 6 months
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Screening frequency:
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Every 3 years (ages 25-49)
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Every 5 years (ages 50-64)
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After age 65, only if previous tests were abnormal.
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Booking and Preparation
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Book your appointment: Contact your GP surgery upon receiving the invitation letter.
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Avoid booking during:
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Menstruation or bleeding
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Pregnancy (wait 12 weeks postpartum)
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Pre-test preparation:
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Stop local oestrogen prescriptions and vaginal moisturisers/lubricants 7 days prior to the test.
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Results and Follow-up
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Results: Expect postal results within 2 weeks
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Abnormal results: Automatic referral to the local Colposcopy Department for further examination
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Concerns or symptoms: Book a GP appointment if experiencing bleeding, pain or discharge.
Important Notes
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Smear tests cannot be requested outside of the invitation schedule.
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If experiencing symptoms, consult your GP for a referral to a hospital specialist.
