YOUR CERVICAL SMEAR TEST IN NOTTINGHAM

What is the cervical smear test?

It is a test to check the health of the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the neck of the womb. For most women the test shows that the cells of the cervix are normal and healthy. For a few women it shows changes in the cells, which if left untreated might develop into cancer, and for others it might show signs of infection.

As with other medical tests, cervical screening is not 100% perfect. If you have unusual symptoms between smear tests such as bleeding after sex, you should consult your doctor.

Remember most smears are normal

• Who needs the test?

All women aged 25 to 64 are now offered a cervical smear test by the NHS. The test is for all women, although cervical cancer is much less common in women who have never had sex.

Every year around 1500 women in the UK die from cervical cancer. Most of them have never had a smear test. The test is simple, only takes a few minutes and could save your life.

• Where can I have my smear test?

The test can be done by one of our practice nurses at Cripps Health Centre. A smear is best taken in the middle of your menstrual cycle. You can make an appointment by telephone on:-

0115 8468888

or

Internal Ext: 75

• How is the test done?

You will be asked to lie down on a couch. The nurse will gently insert a small instrument (speculum) into your vagina to hold it open. A few cells are taken from the cervix by lightly brushing it. The small brush containing the cells is dropped into a liquid container to be examined in the laboratory under a microscope.

• What about sex before the test?

If you use condoms or spermicide or lubricant jelly, you should avoid sex for 24 hours before the test, as the chemicals they contain may affect the smear.

• How can I find out the result?

The result of your test will be sent to your Nottingham address. If you do not want the result sent there you can make other arrangements with the nurse who takes the smear.

• What does it mean if I am asked to come back?

Only very rarely does it mean that you have cancer.

It may mean that your sample didn’t show up clearly and another test is needed. It may be that you have a mild easily treated infection like Candida (thrush).

Your result could point to some slight changes in the cervix. If this is found you will need to have further check-ups or treatment at the hospital. Often the cells return to normal by themselves, but if repeat smear tests still show abnormal cells then you may be asked to go to hospital for a closer examination. If you need treatment it is a minor procedure, often done on an outpatient basis.