All women aged 25-64 will receive a letter from the National Screening Service indicating when their cervical screening is due, typically every 3-5 years depending on age. If you have had an abnormal result, your screening may be scheduled sooner. Upon receiving your letter, contact the surgery to make an appointment with a Practice Nurse or book a specified slot online.
For the best sample, the test should ideally be conducted in the middle of your menstrual cycle (usually around 14 days from the start of your last period).
Avoid using spermicide, a barrier method of contraception, or lubricant jelly for 24 hours before the test, as these substances can affect the results.
Your smear test results will be sent to you by the National Screening Service. If you have not received your results within 8 weeks, please contact the practice.
It is highly recommended that all women attend their smear appointments when called. If you have any concerns or questions about the test, please speak to a nurse beforehand.
Women who have had a total hysterectomy do not need to continue with smear tests, but 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.