Cervical screening within the practice is continuing during the pandemic. Remember cervical screening is not a test for cancer, it is one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancers by detecting and treating changes to your cervix early. During this time, we thought it was important to explain what to expect when you are invited for screening. Looking after your health and wellbeing is important and we are here to help you.
If you are due your screening test, don’t delay making your appointment. Here at the surgery we offer a range of appointment times and days. It is important to be screened:
- Every 3 years between the ages of 25-49 years
- After that, every 5 years until the age of 64.
If you feel you are overdue a screening test or you didn’t respond to your last invitation, please get in touch with us so we can confirm you need an appointment and make one.
Making An Appointment
- When you receive your letter letting you know it is time for cervical screening, contact our receptionists to make an appointment
- But do not book or attend an appointment if you or someone you live with has coronavirus or if you are self-isolating
- Appointment times are carefully staggered to support social distancing and to allow for cleaning between patients. So please attend your appointment at the stated time.
Attending Your Cervical Screening
- You should come to your appointment alone.
- You should wear a mask over your mouth and nose.
- However if you need help from a carer or cannot wear a mask for medical reasons, please let the receptionist know when you make your appointment.
- When entering the building use the hand sanitiser provided and keep 2m apart from anyone else who may be in the building.
- Your nurse will be wearing PPE which means mask, apron and gloves. This is normal at this time.
Taking the Test
- The test itself has not changed and only takes a few minutes. The whole appointment will take about 10 minutes.
- A female nurse or doctor will do your test.
- You will be shown to the treatment room with the nurse where she will go through some information and you can ask questions.
- The nurse will give you a private place where you can undress from the waist down.
- All the medical equipment used is sterilised. The test should not feel painful or uncomfortable.
What to expect afterwards
- The nurse will give you a private place to get dressed afterwards.
- You will sanitise your hands and leave the building following the exit signs.
- The room is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the next patient.
- The nurse will let you know when to expect to get your test results.
We are committed to patient safety and are confident the measures we have put in place will keep you safe!
Jo’s Trust
Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust is the leading cervical cancer charity in the UK. They offer information on cervical cancer, from its symptoms to treatment and even the importance of cervical screening (smear tests). They also offer support to those who have been diagnosed with cervical cancer. Jo’s Trust also campaigns earnestly to raise awareness of cervical cancer and works on research to help those suffering with it.
For more information, please visit: https://www.jostrust.org.uk/about-us
Below are some videos provided by Jo’s Trust about cervical screening.
#Smear for Smear
The #Smear for Smear campaign will run from 18 January to 24 January 2021. It encourages people to post a picture on social media with lipstick smeared across their face to raise awareness and motivate those eligible for cervical screening to book their appointments.
For more information, please visit: https://www.jostrust.org.uk/get-involved/campaign/cervical-cancer-prevention-week/smearforsmear