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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 automatically receive a letter in the post.

It invites you to make a screening appointment at your GP Practice. 

Read the information carefully and decide whether you want to take the test.

A letter and envelope as received for information about cervical screening

Any questions?

If you have any questions or worries about the test, contact your GP or practice nurse.

Cs Why Is Screening Important

Contact your GP

If you decide to accept the invitation, contact your GP surgery to make an appointment.

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How long does a screening appointment last?

A screening appointment test usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes.

A clock face denoting 10 to 15 minutes of time to elapse

Extra support

You can ask for extra support for your appointment.

For example if you need:

  • an interpreter 
  • a longer appointment so you have time to talk things through
  • want to take somebody with you for support
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Who does the test?

It can be a male or female health professional carrying out the test.

You can ask for a female health professional when you phone to make an appointment.

A female nurse wearing an NHS uniform

Try to avoid when it's your period

Try to make an appointment for a day when you won’t have your period.

A calendar with 5 days marked to signify date of period. A box of tampons is also shown.

About my test

 

Where will the test be taken?

Your test will be at your GP surgery.

A clinic waiting room with a number of empty chairs

Any questions?

At your GP practice, the doctor or nurse doing your test will check your details and explain the test to you.

You will be able to ask questions and share any worries you may have.

Cs Why Is Screening Important

How long will the test take?

The test itself usually takes no more than 5 minutes.

A clock face denoting 5 minutes of time to elapse

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.
An illustration of a woman on an examination bed, undressed from the waist down, with a female nurse in attendance

Performing the test

Your nurse will put a speculum (medical instrument) gently into your vagina so they can see your cervix.

They will gently brush cells from your cervix using a soft brush.

A disposable vaginal speculum held in the hand of a person wearing a disposable medical glove

Stopping the test

You can ask for the test to stop at any time.

A round notification sign with the word 'stop'. Above it is an icon of a hand with the palm facing the viewer.

Discomfort

If you feel discomfort, tell your doctor or nurse.

You can ask for a smaller speculum (medical instrument) to be used.

Sometimes changing position can make it more comfortable.

A disposable vaginal speculum held in the hand of a person wearing a disposable medical glove

Making changes to your appointment

 

How to change your appointment

You can make changes to your appointment by phoning your GP practice.

A letter and envelope as received for information about cervical screening

When to change your appointment

You should phone your GP practice if:

  • You want to take someone you trust to your appointment.
  • You want a longer appointment if you have any worries or want to talk about anything to do with the appointment.
  • You need an interpreter at your appointment.
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If you missed your appointment

If you miss an appointment, phone your GP practice as soon as you can to arrange a new appointment.

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Cervical cancer screening

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Cervical screening (Easy Read)
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Why is cervical screening important?
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Understanding my results

Last updated: 25 October 2024

Next review date: 31 January 2025