Cervical Screening
About My Test
What will happen during your appointment and what to do if you need to change your appointment.
How Will I Know about My Appointment?
Your Appointment Letter
You will receive a letter in the post inviting you to make an appointment at your GP practice. Read the information carefully and decide whether you want to take the test.
Any Questions?
If you have any questions or worries about the test, contact your GP or practice nurse.
Contact Your GP
If you decide to accept the invitation, contact your GP surgery to make an appointment.
How Long does a Screening Appointment Last?
A screening appointment test usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes.
Extra Support
You can ask for extra support for your appointment. For example, a translator or a longer appointment so you have more time to talk things through.
Who Does The Test?
It can be a male or female health professional carrying out the test, but you can ask for a female health professional when you phone to make an appointment.
Try to Avoid Your Period
Try to make an appointment for a day when you won’t have your period.
About My Test
Where Will the Test be Taken?
Your test will be at your GP surgery.
Any Questions?
At your GP surgery, a health professional will check your details and explain the test to you. You will be able to ask questions and share any worries you may have.
How Long Will the Test Take?
The test itself usually takes no more than 5 minutes.
Preparing for the Test
Before starting the test, you will be asked to undress from the waist down. You will be given a sheet to cover yourself. You will be asked to lie on an examination bed.
Performing the Test
Your nurse will gently insert a speculum (medical instrument) into your vagina to hold it open so they can see your cervix. They will then gently brush cells from your cervix using a soft brush.
Stopping the Test
You can ask for the test to stop at any time.
Discomfort
If you feel uncomfortable or if it hurts, tell your doctor or nurse. You can ask for a smaller speculum (medical device) to be used if you feel any discomfort.
Making Changes to Your Appointment
How to Change Your Appointment
You can make changes to your appointment by phoning your GP surgery.
When to Change Your Appointment
You should phone your GP surgery if:
- You want to take along someone you trust to your appointment.
- You want a longer appointment if you have any worries or want to discuss anything about your appointment.
- You want to ask for an interpreter to be at your appointment.
- You have a learning disability, don’t have support and you want to ask for support from the Learning Disability Liaison nurses.
If You have Missed Your Appointment
If you miss an appointment, phone your GP surgery as soon as you can to arrange a new appointment.
