Woodfield Medical Centre

All women aged 25-64 will receive a letter from the National Screening Service informing them of when their cervical screening is due, for most women this is every 3-5 years depending on age. If you have had an abnormal result this may be sooner. When you have received your letter, you should contact the surgery to make an appointment with a Practice Nurse or book a specified slot online.

Ideally the test should be done during the middle of the menstrual cycle (usually 14 days from the start of the last period), as this can ensure a better sample of cells is taken.

The use of spermicide, a barrier method of contraception or a lubricant jelly should be avoided for 24 hours before the test, as the chemicals they contain may affect the test.

The result of the smear will be sent to you by the National Screening Service, if you have not received you result by 8 weeks please contact the practice for the result.

It is highly recommended that all women attend for a smear when they are called, if you are unsure or worried about the test then please ask to speak to a nurse about the test first.

Though women who have had a total hysterectomy do not need a smear anymore your can still attend for an NHS Health Check every 5 years up to the age of 74.

Further information about cervical screening is available on the NHS website.