A smear test checks the health of your cervix and the neck of your womb. The test involves collecting a sample of cells tested for an infection with the Human papillomavirus (HPV). The sample is also tested for any changes in your cells that could develop into cervical cancer.
What is a Private Smear Test?
A smear test, also called cervical screening, helps to prevent or identify cervical cancer in its earliest stages. It involves collecting a small number of cells from the cervix and analysing them for HPV and other abnormalities as necessary.
Women are advised to have a cervical smear test every three years. The test can help in detecting HPV or abnormal cells, which is the most effective way to prevent cervical cancer. If abnormal cells are found, they can be treated early before cancer happens.
If you have never had a smear test before or have taken more than five years before taking the test, it is advisable to take a second test within one year of taking the first test.
In some circumstances, you may be asked to take the test more frequently, especially after an abnormal result, for closer observation.
Why Should I Have a Smear Test Carried Out?
The main reason for having the smear test carried out is for screening purposes. The test helps to screen for cervical cancer by testing for HPV and treating it before it causes abnormal cells in the cervix.
If you have any abnormal cells in your cervix after the smear test, they can be treated as soon as they appear. This is a more effective way of avoiding the development of cervical cancer.
How Does the Smear Test Work?
Once you arrive at our clinic, our specialists will walk you through the procedure. You will be asked to undress, wear a gown, and lie on the bed.
Once in the right position, a smooth, tube-shaped tool is inserted into your vagina to hold the walls of the vagina open. A small amount of lubricant can be used on the tube to make the experience more comfortable.
The tube-shaped tool will be opened so we can see your cervix. We will then use a soft brush to take a small sample of cells from your cervix. After removing the brush, the tube-shaped tool will also be removed, and the procedure is complete. The sample collected will be sent for analysis.
Who Needs a Smear Test?
If you have a cervix and have had any type of sexual contact with men or women, including self-touching or using sex toys, you should have a smear test. The smear test will pick up an HPV infection, which causes cell changes that could lead to cervical cancer.
Even if you haven’t had sex for years, you should still consider screening because you may have come into contact with HPV from a previous partner months or years ago. The virus can be inactive and cause abnormal cells later on.
If you’ve had the HPV vaccine, it’s still best to keep up with your screening appointments. The HPV vaccine protects against two types of HPV that cause most cases of cervical cancer but doesn’t protect against other types of HPV that are linked with cervical cancer.
If you’ve never had sexual contact, your risk of HPV is small. However, you may decide to have regular screening. You should also consider the test if you have unusual bleeding or discharge and see your doctor immediately.
You don’t need to have a smear test done if you’ve had a hysterectomy unless your cervix wasn’t removed. If you have unusual bleeding or get symptoms such as bleeding after sex, you should see your doctor. The doctor might do a cervical screening test as part of their investigations.
FAQs
Is There a Difference Between a Smear Test and Cervical Screening?
A smear test is an older name for cervical screening. It was called a smear test because of the test that was used to be done. The cells were smeared on a glass slide and then sent to the laboratory for testing.
The test is different now, and most healthcare professionals call it cervical screening, but will still identify it if you call it a smear test.
Is a Smear Test Painful?
You may find the collection of a smear test sample uncomfortable, but it is not painful. If the procedure is painful, you should let your nurse know. Also, try relaxing your muscles because the more relaxed you are, the less discomfort you will feel. You might find that listening to music on your phone helps you take deep breaths or distract yourself.
How Do I Prepare for the Test?
It’s best to have your smear test when you’re not on your period. If you’re bleeding, the sample won’t be clear, and you may need to have the test again.
You should also avoid using spermicides, including condoms coated with spermicides, lubricating jelly or vaginal creams, at least two days before the test because these chemical products can affect the results of the test.
Should I Go for a Smear Test If I’m Pregnant?
It is not recommended to have a smear test while you’re pregnant, as pregnancy can make the test results more difficult to interpret.
You should wait until three months after your baby is born for the test. If you need a follow-up after an abnormal cervical screening result or treatment for cell changes, you may need to have the test while pregnant.
When Should I Have the Smear Test?
The best time to have a smear test is between the age of 25 to 64. It’s unlikely for people to develop cervical cancer under the age of 25. It is also rare to develop cervical cancer over the age of 64 years if you’ve had regular cervical screening.
