AKA:
Cervical screening, pap test, smear.
What is a smear test?
It's a test to make sure we are not at risk of getting cancer of the cervix (neck of the womb).
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.
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 best time is two weeks after your period, but it doesn't have to be exact.
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 exactly a barrel of laughs, 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 tiny 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 a few weeks. Check with the doctor how to get your result.
- You can read a description of a smear test here.
Further help and advice
What happens at a smear test?
More info from the NHS
Written by Dr Melissa Sayer
Last updated 17th June 2007
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Sara, 19
so can you have smear test before the age of 25?
Leonie, 24
Hi, I thought you couldn't have a smear until you were 25 years old? my nurse wouldn't do mine after I had my daughter when I was 23, how come some of the women writing on here are 16, 17 and have had smears when I wasn't aloud one ???
Sam, 25
I've had 2 - both horrible. Don't think I'll go again.
upset, 24
I went for a smear test to my local GP, and had to request one as I am not yet 25, and i was worried about some abnormalities. i waited 4 months, and nobody contacted me. it turns out they'd 'lost it', or thrown it away, and now i have to go for another, and wait again to find out if anything is wrong.
sian, 15
i'm officially petrified to have a smear test, lol. it doesn't seem to bad but the thought of having someone rummaging around in my lady bits is scary :/ but it is good for your health.
Chelsea, 16
i had a smear test today, thought it was going to hurt, dint hurt at all, im waiting for my results now, fingers crossed they are ok
helen , 26
i was so nervous and it did hurt it felt painfull
Rachel, 19
its horrible it really hurts i hate it
charlotte, 12
this is gross
CML, 17
Ive had 2 smear tests.. And they are absolutely nothing to worry about!! :) Seriously girls, the first time i had one done i was like ''Have you done it yet?'' I didnt feel a thing.. lol, its nothing to worry about :) And its health benefits are worth while. Regular smear tests can help against STI's, Cervical Cancer and other vaginal problems. So dont panic, and just make sure you wear nice knickers ;)
sophia, 17
had my first one yesterday. wasnt pleasent but werent too bad doesnt hurt and isnt embarrasing just think, theyve seen it all before
Charli, 16
The thought of smear tests used to make me feel sick. Reading that , I know what theyr going to be like now. And they arnt as bad as they seem
onelife
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