Help Us Help You – Cervical Screening
Cervical Cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and getting screened can help stop it before it starts. Screening helps prevent cervical cancer by checking for a virus called high-risk HPV which causes nearly all cervical cancers.
This is the best way to find out who is at higher risk of developing the cervical cell changes that over time could potentially lead to cervical cancer.
If you’re worried or embarrassed about your screening, you might consider the tips below:
Discuss your concerns
You can ask for a smaller speculum or the nurse can advise you on different positions to make it more comfortable.
You can also ask your nurse about breathing exercises, as these can help.
Clothing
You might want to wear a skirt or dress or a long jumper, which you can keep on during the test. If you forget to do this, don’t worry – you’ll be provided with a disposable modesty sheet to cover yourself.
Distraction
Take a podcast or music to listen to – this may help you relax or distract you during your appointment.
The right nurse for you
If you want to make sure a woman carries out your test, you can ask for this when you make your appointment.
Support for having a smear
We also have provided lots of information on support for having a smear including helplines under Support with cervical screening.