Skip the main content if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Cervical screening can help prevent cancer by detecting early changes in the cells of the cervix (the neck of the womb).
The first stage of cervical screening is a smear test.
Your GP or nurse takes a sample of cells from the cervix. The sample goes to a laboratory to see if any of the cells look abnormal. Some women who have an abnormal smear may need to have treatment to stop cancer developing in the future.
Remember though, that most women who have an abnormal smear do not go on to develop cancer. Often, a repeat smear shows that all is well.
All women aged 25-64 can have a free smear test every 3-5 years. You will automatically get an invitation letter. (Make sure that your GP has your correct, current address.)
Because of cervical screening, invasive cervical cancer is now an uncommon disease in this country.
For more information...
NHS cancer screening programmes website
You can use this to get the latest information on cervical screening, including leaflets and information to download.
Preventing cervical cancer - Macmillan Cancer Support explains how to prevent cervical cancer. You can view this on-line, or contact Macmillan on 0808 808 0000 for information.
Cervical cancer information on this website
For information about cervical cancer – including the treatment of pre-cancerous changes – go to the cervical cancer section of this website.
