Questions about smear tests you’re too afraid to ask

Did you know that women in Scotland aged under 25 or above 64 are not eligible to receive a smear test at their NHS practice? Going for regular smear tests is an effective way to protect yourself against cervical cancer. In fact, 75% of cervical cancers can be prevented by regular cervical screening. And whilst the incidence of cervical cancer below age 25 and above age 64 is low, we at YourGP recognise that it does happen. For this reason, we are happy to provide smear tests from age 18 and we don’t place an upper age limit on them either. If you’re new to the concept of cervical screening, read on as we answer some of the questions you’re too afraid to ask…

What happens during a smear test at YourGP?

1. The doctor will start by asking you a few questions about your general health.
2. We will then ask you to go behind a privacy curtain and undress from the waist down.
3. You’ll then lie on your back on an examination bed and cover the lower half of your body with a modesty cover.
4. When you’re ready, the doctor will ask you to bend your knees, keeping your ankles together and letting your knees naturally fall to the sides.
5. A sterilised medical instrument called a speculum will then be gently inserted into your vagina. These come in several sizes so if you feel the need to ask for a smaller size, please do so.
6. The speculum will then be gently expanded to hold your vaginal walls open so that the cervix is visible.
7. The doctor will then insert a small brush, specially designed to collect cells from your cervix.
8. Once the cells have been collected, the doctor will remove the speculum.
9. You can then get dressed in private behind the closed curtain.

Will it hurt?

The whole procedure takes no more than a few minutes and although it may be a little uncomfortable, it shouldn’t cause any pain.

What if I’m feeling anxious about having my smear test?

The best thing to do is to be honest with the doctor about how you’re feeling. Here at YourGP, we offer extended appointments to ensure your experience is calm and unrushed, giving you ample to time to relax and ask any questions you might have. We find that giving patients time to sit, take a few deep breaths, and prepare for their smear test without feeling hurried can make all the difference to their experience, and is especially beneficial to those who feel anxious about the test. We are also happy for you to bring along a loved one to sit with you throughout the entire appointment if you wish.

Should I wax / shave before a smear test?

That is entirely your personal choice. There is no need to do anything different than you normally would any other day. Remember, our doctors and nurses focus solely on collecting the cervical cells and are completely unfazed by whether you have or haven’t waxed. They have seen it all before!

When should I book my smear test?

The best time is in the middle of your menstrual cycle – approximately 14 days after your last period – as this gives the best specimen. If possible, try to book your appointment during this time as it is important that no menstrual blood is present on the day of your test.

Can I have sex beforehand?

Do not have vaginal penetrative sexual intercourse 24 hours before your screening as sperm, spermicidal gel and lubricants can make it difficult to obtain a good cell sample from the cervix.

What if I’m on medication?

If you have been prescribed vaginal pessaries to treat an infection, postpone your screening for at least a week after the treatment has finished. If you are using a vaginal oestrogen cream, do not apply it for 2 days prior to your smear test.

How soon will I get my results?

We will send the sample of cervical cells off to a laboratory for testing immediately. YourGP offers a fast turnaround of results – they will be made available to you within just 2-3 working days.

What happens next?

If no high-risk HPV is found in the sample, you will not require another smear test for 5 years. This is because the risk of developing cervical cancer within 5 years is very low – it usually takes around 10 to 15 years for cancer to develop after an HPV infection.

If high-risk HPV is found in the sample, the sample will then be used for cytology-based tests. Around 1 in 100 women will have precancerous changes highlighted in a cervical smear, which will require further treatment. Should any abnormal cells be detected, your doctor will inform you of the results and the recommended next steps.

Book your appointment

Every day in the UK, nine women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and three women lose their lives to the disease. Smear tests provide an effective way of cutting your risk.  To book yours, use our simple online booking system, email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.