By Dr Abina Dharmaratnam, Speciality Registrar in Public Health Medicine, NHS England in the Midlands.
If you are over 25 and have a cervix you might have heard of cervical screening – 5 yearly testing that helps prevent cervical cancer.
You have probably gone along to your GP surgery for your screening appointment as two out of three of us regularly attend our check-ups.
But you might be that third person who is worried about it, or who puts it off or just can’t find the right moment.
Cervical screening is important because it can find abnormal changes in your cells. You won’t be able to see or feel these changes and leaving these unchecked could lead to cancer. Screening is a quick and simple appointment that can find these changes early before they become cancer.
Make the appointment work for you
If the appointment time you are first given isn’t convenient, make it a time that is. It’s important that you attend and that you feel comfortable when you do.
If you are feeling worried about your appointment, there are things you can do to help.
Did you know you could take along a friend or family member for support? You can also ask the nurse or doctor about another staff member being present during the appointment.
There are other tips to help make you more comfortable:
- If you find screening uncomfortable, let the nurse or doctor know. They might be able to help you change position or use a smaller instrument. They might also be able to use more lubricant.
- You are in control – you can ask to stop at any moment.
- You can ask for the door to be closed or locked.
- Most screenings are performed by female nurses or doctors. But you can specifically request this when you book.
Don’t put off your screening. It could save your life.
If you have missed your appointment or haven’t booked yet, contact your GP to make another one.
Find out more information about cervical cancer on the NHS website.