What does a cervical smear test involve?

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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

Screening starts at age 25 and continues until age 64
You’ll receive an invitation letter from the screening programme from age 24 years and 6 months
Screening frequency:
- Every 3 years (ages 25-49)
- Every 5 years (ages 50-64)
- After age 65, only if previous tests were abnormal.

Booking and Preparation

Book your appointment: Contact your GP surgery upon receiving the invitation letter.
Avoid booking during:
- Menstruation or bleeding
- Pregnancy (wait 12 weeks postpartum)
Pre-test preparation:
- Stop local oestrogen prescriptions and vaginal moisturisers/lubricants 7 days prior to the test.

Results and Follow-up

Results: Expect postal results within 2 weeks
Abnormal results: Automatic referral to the local Colposcopy Department for further examination
Concerns or symptoms: Book a GP appointment if experiencing bleeding, pain or discharge.