Screening
Cervical smear (cervical screening)
A short test to check the health of your cervix, including HPV testing and a sample of the cervical cells. Quick, painless and one of the most effective cancer-prevention tests available.
- In clinic
- 10–15 minutes
- None
Overview
About this procedure.
Cervical screening, sometimes called a smear test, is the most effective way to detect early changes on the cervix. The test checks for high-risk HPV first; if HPV is found, the same sample is checked for any abnormal cells.
A normal result means you’ll be invited back at your routine interval. If HPV or cell changes are detected, Mr Orabi will discuss the next step, which is often a colposcopy.
Setting
In clinic
Duration
10–15 minutes
Anaesthetic
None
Indications
What it's for.
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Routine cervical screening (smear test)
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Catching up on missed NHS screening
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Earlier screening for patients with a history of abnormal results
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Follow-up after treatment for cervical cell changes
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Investigation of bleeding between periods or after sex
On the day
How it's done.
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A speculum is gently inserted, similar to a routine examination
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A small brush is used to take cells from the surface of the cervix
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The sample is sent to an accredited UK laboratory
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The laboratory tests for high-risk HPV first; if found, the cells are then checked for any changes
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The whole procedure takes 5–10 minutes
Recovery
After your procedure.
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No recovery time needed, back to normal activity immediately
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Very light spotting for a day is occasionally seen
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Results typically available within 1–2 weeks
Benefits
Why this approach.
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Detects HPV and cell changes before they become serious
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One of the most effective cancer-prevention tests available
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Quick, simple, and well tolerated
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Results delivered in writing with a follow-up plan
Risks
What to be aware of.
- Slight discomfort during the speculum examination
- Light spotting afterwards (uncommon)