A smear test shouldn’t be feared – here’s everything you need to know about cervical screening and why you shouldn’t delay booking yours

I think we can safely say that no one likes going for a smear test. They can be a little awkward, slightly uncomfortable and waiting for any kind of result is a bit nerve-wracking. But they’re nothing to be afraid of – in fact, they can be a life-saving (it’s estimated that if everyone attended screening regularly, 83% of cervical cancer cases could be prevented).

Unfortunately, the results of a recent survey by Public Health England has revealed that cervical screening attendance is at a twenty-year low, with only one in four eligible women not attending their tests – and the pandemic has not helped matters.

Dr Belinda Griffiths from The Fleet Street Clinic notes that in March 2020, the number of cervical smears halved, yet the clinic was open and observing all the rules for social distancing, hygiene, PPE and avoidance of risk in the form of possible Covid-19 infection. 

“It is very important to have cervical smears done regularly and to follow up previous abnormal results with another smear test as required,” she explained. “Failure to do so can result in surgical procedures which are more radical than would be necessary if abnormalities were picked up earlier. If early changes on the cervix are left, a larger area of the cervix has to be removed in order to clear the possibly cancerous changes, which in turn, can lead to subsequent difficulty in pregnancy and a higher risk of miscarriage, than would have been the case if treated earlier.”

To help answer any questions you may have, we’ve called upon Rebecca Shoosmith, head of support services at the UK’s leading cervical screening charity, Jo’s Trust, to set the record straight ahead of yours…

What is a smear test?

A smear test, otherwise known as cervical screening, is a short five to 15 minute test that checks the health of the cervix. It is not a test for cancer – rather, it is a test that helps to prevent cancer.

The test is performed by a qualified nurse or doctor and involves a visual inspection of the cervix as well as collection of a small sample of cells. For the test, you will need to undress from the waist down (although you can cover up with a paper sheet if preferred) and lie back with legs bent, knees down and feet together. The practitioner will slowly insert a small tube known as a speculum into the vagina (don’t worry, they can use lubrication if needed or you can ask for a smaller speculum), which gently opens up to reveal the top of the cervix. Then, a few cells are collected using a soft brush, which are then sent to the labs and tested for abnormalities and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Does it hurt?

Everyone’s experience of a smear test is different, with the majority of women reporting no pain or mild discomfort. However, some women do find that the test is painful and there are many psychological factors that come into play and make the situation worse. The most important thing is to remember that you can ask to stop at any point, and also to tell your nurse or doctor if you are feeling anxious as they will be able to make suggestions to help you feel more comfortable.