What is a smear test?
A smear test, also known as cervical screening, is a vital health check offered to women to help prevent cervical cancer. This simple yet highly effective procedure is designed to detect early changes in cervical cells, allowing for timely treatment before these changes develop into cancer. Understanding what a smear test involves can help you feel prepared and confident about attending your appointment.
What is the role of a smear test in cancer prevention?
The primary purpose of a smear test is to check for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that can cause abnormal changes in cervical cells, which, if left untreated, may develop into cervical cancer over time.
Cervical screening is not a test for cancer itself but a preventative measure to identify early changes. Thanks to cervical screening, thousands of cases of cervical cancer are prevented every year in the UK, making it one of the most effective tools in protecting your health.
What happens during a smear test?
1. Booking Your Appointment
If you’re eligible, the NHS will send you an invitation letter when it’s time for your cervical screening. You can book your smear test at your GP surgery, either online or by calling.
2. The Procedure
During the test, a trained nurse or doctor will ask you to lie on an examination couch. A small instrument called a speculum is lubricated and gently inserted into the vagina to allow clear access to the cervix. Using a small-soft brush, they will collect a sample of cells from the cervix. The process takes only a few minutes and may feel slightly uncomfortable but shouldn’t be painful.
3. After the Test
The cell sample is sent to a laboratory to check for high-risk HPV. If HPV is detected, the sample is further analysed for any abnormal cell changes. You’ll typically receive your results by letter within two weeks. Most results show no issues, but if any changes are detected, follow-up tests or treatment may be recommended.
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What to expect after a smear test
After the test, you might experience mild spotting or slight discomfort, but this should resolve quickly. If you have heavy bleeding or prolonged discomfort, contact your GP.
Receiving abnormal results doesn’t mean you have cervical cancer. It simply indicates changes that may require closer monitoring or treatment to prevent further issues.
Why is cervical screening so important?
Smear tests have been instrumental in reducing cervical cancer rates. By detecting precancerous changes early, they allow for timely interventions that save lives. Attending your regular cervical screening appointments is one of the best ways to protect your health.
Take the first step
Understanding what a smear test is and why it’s essential is the first step in prioritising your cervical health. If you’re eligible and haven’t booked your appointment yet, take a moment to schedule your smear test today. It’s a quick and straightforward procedure that could make all the difference to your long-term wellbeing.
Find out more about cervical screening (smear tests) with our AXA Health Smear Fear Campaign.
Reviewed by Dr Pallavi Bradshaw
Dr Pallavi Bradshaw is Deputy Chief Medical Officer at AXA Health, with over 20 years of experience in global healthcare. Pallavi graduated from St Catharine’s College, Cambridge and trained at Addenbrooke’s Hospital as an Ophthalmologist before joining the Medical Protection Society (MPS). In her role she provides support and leadership across AXA Health, guiding the development of AXA Health’s external policy, with a particular interest in patient safety.
