Cervical smear test

What is a cervical smear test?

A cervical smear test is a test of a sample of cells taken from a woman's cervix. It is not a test for cancer. It is used to detect abnormal cells that left untreated cold develop into cervical cancer.

It is the best tool to detect precancerous conditions and hidden, small tumours that may lead to cervical cancer. If detected early, cervical cancer can be cured.

The NHS has a cervical screening programme to ensure all women in England and Wales between the ages of 25 and 64 are regularly invited for a smear test. The first test is at 25, then every three years until the age of 49. Between the ages of 50 to 64 the tests are every five years (cervical smear tests are offered every three years from the ages of 20-64 in Wales, every three years from the ages of 20-60 in Scotland, and every 3-5 years for those aged 20-64 in Northern Ireland). After 65, only those who have not been tested since the age of 50, or those with recent abnormal tests will be invited for screening.

How is a cervical smear test performed?

The cervical smear test is done during a pelvic examination. A doctor or practice nurse uses a device called a speculum to widen the opening of the vagina so that the cervix can be examined. A plastic spatula and small brush are used to collect cells from the cervix. After the cells are taken, they are placed into a solution. The solution is sent to a lab for testing.

Is the cervical smear test painful?

A cervical smear test is not painful, but the pelvic examination may be a little uncomfortable.

When will I know the results of the cervical smear test?

You should receive a letter with the result of your test within six weeks of being screened.

What do the results of a cervical smear test mean?

A normal cervical smear test means the cells from the cervix look normal. An abnormal cervical smear test means the cells do not look normal. Sometimes repeat cervical smear tests are needed. Different tests also may need to be done, such as a colposcopy (the use of a special microscope to examine the cervix and vagina). Cervical smear tests can occasionally show signs of infection but cannot be relied on to screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Other tests are necessary to determine the presence of an STI. There are several things you can do to help make the cervical smear test as accurate as possible. These include avoidance of sex and vaginal creams for 48 hours before the test.

What happens if the results are abnormal?

An abnormal cervical smear test does not necessarily mean that cancer cells were found during the examination. There are many causes for abnormal cervical smear test results. Your doctor will evaluate the results to determine if further testing is necessary.