Cervical screening (also known as a smear test) checks the health of your cervix. The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina.
It’s not a test for cancer, it’s a test to help prevent cancer.
Who the screening is for
All women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 should get a letter to invite them for a smear.
If you’ve not been invited and think you’re eligible, please contact the surgery.
How often you need a screening
How often you need screening depends on how old you are.
If you’re:
-under 25, you’ll be invited up to 6 months before you turn 25
-25 to 49, you’ll be invited every 3 years
-50 to 64, you’ll be invited every 5 years
-65 or older, you’ll only be invited if 1 of your last 3 tests was abnormal.
Getting an appointment
You’ll get a letter in the post inviting you to make an appointment.
The letter will tell you where you can go and how to request an appointment.
We will also contact you with a reminder when your cervical screening is due.
Find more information on the NHS website
More information can be found on Jo's Cervical Screening Cancer Trust