Cervical screening is free health test that helps to prevent cervical cancer.  It checks for a virus called high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is normal and very common, most people will get HPV at some point in their lives and it usually goes away without causing any problems.

If you have HPV it is then checked for cervical cell changes (abnormal cells).

We offer routine cervical screening to patients with a cervix, aged 25 – 64 years old. The appointment is with a member of our female nursing team, you are welcome to bring a friend along with you. The nurse will offer you a chaperone at the appointment time. It is a common misconception that you need to come mid-cycle. In fact, you can come at any time as long as you are not bleeding heavily as this can obscure the cell collection. Results come to you in the post, usually within 2-4 weeks of your appointment.

You will get a letter regardless of your test results.

Please remember, a smear is a screening test and is not suitable for someone with worrying symptoms such as bleeding after sex, post-menopausal bleeding or bleeding in between periods.

You should always see a GP if you are experiencing worrying symptoms