What Is Cervical Screening

• All women aged 25 to 64 are invited by letter to cervical screening to check the health of their cervix. Cervical screening used to be called a smear test.
• Everyone with a cervix should go for cervical screening.
• The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina.
• It's not a test for cancer, it's a test to help prevent cancer.
• During the screening appointment, a small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix.
• The sample is checked for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix. These are called "high risk" types of HPV.
• If these types of HPV are not found, you do not need any further tests.
• If these types of HPV are found, the sample is checked for any changes in the cells of your cervix. These can be treated before they get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.
• The nurse or doctor will tell you when you can expect your results letter.

Important

Try not to put off cervical screening. It's one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer.

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.