AKA: Cervical screening, pap test, smear.
What are they?
A test to find out if the cells of your cervix (the entrance to your womb) need treatment to stop you getting cervical cancer.
Do I need to have a smear test?
Cervical cancer (cancer of the cervix) is one of the most common cancers in women and many women who’ve got it don’t realise it for years. The earlier you find it, the easier cervical cancer is to treat, so it’s important to get tested.
Having said that Cervical cancer is rare in women under 20. Teenagers' bodies, particularly the cervix, are still developing, which means young women may get an abnormal result when there is nothing wrong. This could lead to unnecessary treatment so screening young women might do more harm than good.
How do I get one?
Once you’re over 25 you’ll automatically get free smear tests from the NHS, who’ll write to you urging you to make an appointment. You'll be eligible for a free cervical screening test every three to five years until you're 64.
It’s best if you don’t have a smear test while you’re on your period - the recommended time is two weeks after your period.
What will happen?
A doctor or nurse will take a sample of cells from your cervix and send them off to a laboratory to be tested. This isn’t as scary as it might sound. It only takes a couple of minutes and, while it isn't very nice, it doesn’t hurt.
•You’ll need to take off your knickers and lie on your back with your legs bent and apart while the doctor or nurse uses a speculum (a small metal instrument) to look at your cervix.
•Then they’ll use a soft brush or spatula to scrape some cells from your cervix. None of this should be painful, although it might be a bit uncomfortable, especially if you’re nervous - so try to stay relaxed.
•Your results should be ready in about four weeks.
Further help and advice
• cancerscreening.nhs.uk
• Type in your postcode and find help in your area at ruthinking.co.uk
Disclaimer: the BBC can't be held responsible for the content of external websites.
Pictures posed by models.
