Cervical Screening Awareness Week (15th–21st June) is an important opportunity to raise awareness of cervical screening and encourage women to attend this potentially life-saving appointment.
Despite cervical screening preventing thousands of cases of cervical cancer every year, many women delay or avoid attending their smear test. Busy lives, embarrassment, anxiety, previous negative experiences, or concerns about discomfort can all make it tempting to put the appointment off.
However, cervical screening remains one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer and protect your long-term health.
What Is Cervical Screening?
Often referred to as a “smear test”, cervical screening is a simple procedure that checks for the presence of high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for almost all cases of cervical cancer.
The test involves collecting a small sample of cells from the cervix, which are then analysed in a laboratory.
Importantly, cervical screening is not a test for cancer. Instead, it identifies changes that could potentially develop into cancer if left untreated, allowing action to be taken at an early stage.
Why Is It So Important?
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer when changes are detected early.
Most people who develop cervical cancer have either never attended cervical screening or have not attended regularly.
By attending when invited, you are giving yourself the best opportunity to identify any abnormalities before they become a more serious problem.
Common Reasons Women Avoid Screening
We understand that many women feel nervous about cervical screening.
Some common concerns include:
- Worry about discomfort or pain
- Feeling embarrassed
- Previous difficult experiences
- Anxiety about the results
- Lack of time
- Being unsure about the purpose of the test
These feelings are completely normal.
Healthcare professionals perform cervical screening every day and understand that it can feel daunting. Their priority is to help you feel as comfortable, informed and supported as possible throughout the process.
What Happens During the Appointment?
The appointment itself is usually quick, often taking only a few minutes.
A trained healthcare professional will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have before asking you to lie comfortably on an examination couch. A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina so that the cervix can be seen, and a small brush is used to collect a sample of cells.
While some women find the procedure slightly uncomfortable, it should not be painful. Let your clinician know if you feel anxious or have experienced discomfort previously, as there may be ways to make the experience more comfortable for you.
When Will I Be Invited?
In England, women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited for cervical screening through the NHS programme.
The frequency of screening depends on your age and previous results.
If you have received an invitation, try not to put it to the bottom of your to-do list. A few minutes now could make a significant difference to your future health.
Your Health Matters
At See Me GP, we believe healthcare should feel calm, supportive and unhurried.
If you have questions about cervical screening, concerns about symptoms, or have been putting off an appointment because you feel anxious, we encourage you to seek advice.
Cervical Screening Awareness Week is a reminder that prevention and early detection save lives.
If you’ve received your invitation, consider making this the week you book your appointment.
Your future self will thank you for it.