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A cervical screening test, also called a smear test, is one of the most important yet simplest preventative healthcare steps. Regular screening helps prevent cancer development and provides peace of mind when the screening results are clear. Clinicians can quickly book further tests or treatment when the test shows abnormalities.

Your cervical health is critical and, if neglected, can lead to cervical cancer and other issues. Understanding the benefits of cervical screening could help motivate you to get yours booked in as soon as possible if you haven’t had one in the last three years.

What is cervical screening?

Cervical screening is a simple test performed by a qualified nurse, clinician, or private gynaecologist, depending on the medical setting. But what is cervical screening? During the test, a speculum is used to gently hold the vaginal walls open. A swab or cervical brush collects a small sample of cells from the cervix. The procedure is entirely painless and lasts just a few minutes.

What does cervical screening test for? The sample is checked for HPV, short for the human papillomavirus. Certain types of HPV can indicate a higher risk of cancer. If HPV is present, cells are tested to understand if they’ve changed since your last smear test or if there are recognisable mutations. Those mutations could indicate that the cells are precancerous, which means that they are at risk of developing into cancer at some stage. Depending on the results of these tests, you may be sent for further tests, including a colposcopy or biopsy.

Why is it important?

Detecting precancerous cells can prevent cancer before it develops. Further tests or treatment can be offered as soon as they’re required, protecting more people from cervical cancer. Catching cells before they become cancerous drastically reduces the mortality rate associated with cervical cancer.

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Preventive, not diagnostic

It is essential to understand that a cervical screening test is not a diagnostic tool but a preventative measure. Cervical cancer develops slowly as cervical cells gradually change over time. Detecting changes in those cells helps clinicians understand if diagnostic tests or treatment options are required. The smear itself is for identifying changes that could indicate an additional test is needed, helping to prevent the development of cervical cancer.

Cervical screening — how often should you go? Medical professionals recommend that all women aged between 25 and 49 should  undergo a smear test every three years. Once beyond 50, women can safely reduce that frequency to every five years.

A cervical screening test is sensitive enough to identify even the smallest cellular mutation. In most cases, these slightly mutated cells are categorised as precancerous, indicating no serious condition or complication has yet arisen within the cervix area. Taking this preventative approach to screening means that around 1 in 20 women receive an abnormal smear test result from their private gynaecologist or GP.

Who should have cervical screening?

Everyone who can have cervical screening should take a test every three years or five years after age 50. A cervical screening test is the best way to detect precancerous cells and prevent cervical cancer from developing.

Some people may be squeamish about having the test done. They may feel embarrassed, particularly if they’ve never had any gynaecological tests performed before. It’s important to remember that trained gynaecologists perform these tests daily and will do everything they can to put you at ease. The process is very fast, and it helps if you relax and listen to any guidance your clinician or nurse provides.

It’s normal to have questions such as, “Can you have a cervical screening on your period?” In most cases, it’s not recommended that you undergo a cervical screening test while menstruating. The menstrual fluid may contaminate the cellular sample. Any other day of your cycle is fine.

Similarly, when it comes to cervical screening, pregnancy brings up many questions. Initial testing during pregnancy isn’t recommended. However, if it’s a follow-up test after abnormal cells have been found, a medical professional may recommend that you have the test as soon as possible.

What is HPV?

HPV is a group of viruses, some of which are associated with both genital warts and cancer. The presence of HPV can indicate that cancer could develop in the future.

Anyone can catch HPV, and it doesn’t just transmit via sexual intercourse. According to the NHS, most people will see some sort of HPV at some point in their lives. You can help prevent HPV transmission by utilising condoms, but these are not a guaranteed preventative as any skin-to-skin contact can pass the virus.

The HPV vaccine is now available to some people via the NHS. According to Cancer Research UK, the vaccine prevents cervical cancer from developing in 9 out of 10 cases.

HPV doesn’t just cause cervical cancer. It’s also associated with anal cancer, vaginal cancer, vulval cancer and others. However, these conditions are not as common as cervical cancer. Cervical screening is the only reliable way to detect the presence of HPV and prevent the onset of cervical cancer.

Cervical screening test procedure overview

Before your screening appointment

Avoid booking a smear test during your period, as blood can affect results.

Do not use vaginal creams, lubricants, or other vaginal preparations for at least 48 hours prior to the test, as these can interfere with accuracy.

Wear loose-fitting clothes for ease during the procedure.

How cervical screening is done

You will be asked to undress from the waist down.  A sheet will be provided for discretion

A tube-shaped instrument called a speculum will be inserted into the vagina. It holds the vaginal walls apart in order to visualise the cervix. Lubricant will be used to minimise any discomfort

A soft brush will collect cells firm the cervix that will be sent to the lab for testing.

The speculum will be removed, and you will get  dressed. The entire process takes less than 5  minutes.

What happens if abnormal cells are found?

Abnormal cells could indicate the possibility that cancer could develop in the future. The presence of HPV prompts two actions: Either a routine follow-up in one year to ensure the cells haven’t changed further or a colposcopy to examine the cervix in greater detail. The first option only occurs when HPC is present, but no abnormalities exist. The second option is always taken in the case of mutations or abnormalities.

If high-grade precancerous cells are detected, an LLETZ procedure may be recommended to treat them. LLETZ stands for large loop excision of the transformation zone. Under local anaesthetic, a heated wire loop is used to remove any abnormal cells from the cervix. The procedure is simple and usually only takes a maximum of 15 minutes.

Summary

Looking after your cervical health is essential but simple when you book cervical screening tests at an expert clinic. Private cervical screening gives you the peace of mind that compassionate professionals will treat you in a warm, welcoming environment. You’re also ideally placed for the highest quality of care should you require follow-up tests or procedures such as a colposcopy.

London Women’s Centre is a trusted provider for cervical screening and will ensure this quick, painless procedure takes up no more than 10 minutes of your day. Book a consultation or call 020 7088 8425 for more information.

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