*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

What Happens

During cervical screening a small sample of cells is taken from your cervix for testing.

It's usually done by a female nurse or doctor.

Before starting, they should explain what will happen during the test and answer any questions you have.

How cervical screening is done

You'll need to undress, behind a screen, from the waist down. You'll be given a sheet to put over you.
The nurse will ask you to lie back on a bed, usually with your legs bent, feet together and knees apart. Sometimes you may need to change position during the test.
They'll gently put a smooth, tube-shaped tool (a speculum) into your vagina. A small amount of lubricant may be used.
The nurse will open the speculum so they can see your cervix.
Using a soft brush, they'll take a small sample of cells from your cervix.
The nurse will close and remove the speculum and leave you to get dressed.

The cervical screening test itself should take less than 5 minutes. The whole appointment should take about 10 minutes.

You're in control of the cervical screening test and can ask the nurse to stop at any time.

If you're worried about cervical screening, there are things you can try that might make the test easier for you.

wear something you can leave on during the test, like a skirt or long jumper
bring someone with you for support
try breathing exercises to help you relax - ask the nurse about these
ask the nurse to use a smaller speculum
ask the nurse about lying in a different position - such as on your side with your knees pulled up to your chest
bring something to listen to or read during the test

do not feel pressured to keep going - you can ask to stop the test at any time
try not to be afraid or embarrassed to talk to the nurse - telling them how you feel will help them understand what kind of support you might need

You may have some spotting or light bleeding after your cervical screening test.

This is very common and should go away after a few hours.

bleeding after cervical screening which is heavy or does not stop after a few hours

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.