Debunking the smear test

A smear test is the common name used to describe cervical screening, which involves the examination of your cervix. The main aim of this test is to identify any abnormal cells, which would allow them to be monitored and treated before they turn cancerous. The test can also be used to identify the human papillomavirus (HPV) which is a group of viruses which may also cause cancer if left untreated. It is estimated that 83% of cervical cancer cases would be prevented if everyone attended the screenings regularly. In the UK, every person with a cervix is invited to a smear test between the ages of 25 and 64. It is recommended to attend a smear test every three years between the ages of 25 and 49, and every five years for over 50s.

The smear test is a 5 to 15-minute procedure where a doctor or nurse visually inspects the cervix and takes a small swab of cells. For the procedure, you need to lay on your back with knees apart and feet together. To collect the sample of cells, the doctor or nurse will insert a small tube called the speculum into the vagina which will open up the cervix, and then use a small brush to gently collect a small sample of cells. This sample is then sent off to laboratories where it can be tested for abnormalities and HPV. The results usually come back within two weeks and whilst they are usually all clear, detecting abnormalities early is the key to successfully treating them before they become cancerous.

Although this process might sound daunting, there is nothing to worry about

Although this process might sound daunting, there is nothing to worry about as the procedure is quick, and essential in preventing cervical cancer. Despite this, the attendance of smear tests is at a 20 year low with 1 in 4 eligible people not attending. This is most likely due to a fear of the unknown or an idea that it will be painful and scary. Whilst the majority of people say the test is painless, some people do experience mild discomfort. However, this shouldn’t discourage people from going, as it is an essential test to ensure your cervix is healthy. If you are anxious, it is a good idea to inform the nurse or doctor of this so that they can offer ways to make you feel more at ease. Also, you are allowed to ask them to stop and take a break at any time you experience discomfort or worry. It is in the interests of the practitioners to make all the patients feel relaxed as to encourage them to come back for another smear test when the next one is due.

If your results show abnormalities or HPV, it is important to not panic: this does not mean you will get cancer. Instead, you will be invited for another test called a colposcopy, which takes no more than half an hour and should also be relatively painless. After this, the doctor will choose what is the most suitable medication to use. Most cell abnormalities can be resolved by treatment, especially if discovered early.

I would strongly encourage everyone who is invited for a smear test to just go for it

HPV is a common virus that most of us will come into contact with during our lifetime. There are over 200 types of it, but only 13 have been linked to cancer. In the past, HPV was only tested for in individuals who had shown abnormalities in cells from a smear test. However, HPV is now starting to be tested for before abnormalities, which is a more precise way of identifying people with a  higher risk of developing cervical cancer and it would hence help to spot signs of risk even earlier.

There is currently research being done into alternatives for smear tests. A urine kit which could be used at home is currently being developed and may be used in the near future. This would enable people to get tested from the comfort of their own homes.

I would strongly encourage everyone who is invited for a smear test to just go for it. It will most likely be nowhere near as scary as you imagined and it will put your mind at ease knowing you have been tested for the very early signs of cervical cancer.