What Happens

How cervical screening is done

You'll need to undress, behind a screen, from the waist down. You'll be given a sheet to put over you.
The nurse or doctor will ask you to lie back on a bed, usually with your legs bent, feet together and knees apart. Sometimes you may need to change position during the test.
They'll gently put a smooth, tube-shaped tool (a speculum) into your vagina. A small amount of lubricant may be used.
The nurse or doctor will open the speculum so they can see your cervix.
Using a soft brush, they'll take a small sample of cells from your cervix.
The nurse or doctor will close and remove the speculum and leave you to get dressed.

The cervical screening test itself should take less than 5 minutes. The whole appointment should take about 10 minutes.

Important

You're in control of the cervical screening test and can ask to stop at any time.

Preparing for your cervical screening test

If you're worried about cervical screening, there are things you can try that might make the test easier for you.

Do

wear something you can leave on during the test, like a skirt or long jumper
bring someone with you for support
try breathing exercises to help you relax - ask the nurse or doctor about these
ask the nurse or doctor to use a smaller speculum if you feel any discomfort
ask if you can put the speculum in yourself if you would prefer to
ask about lying in a different position - such as on your side with your knees pulled up to your chest
bring something to listen to or read during the test

Don't

do not feel pressured to keep going - you can ask to stop the test at any time
try not to be afraid or embarrassed to talk to the nurse or doctor - telling them how you feel will help them understand what kind of support you might need

Risks of cervical screening

Cervical screening does not usually hurt, but some people may find it uncomfortable or painful. You can ask to stop the test at any point if you need to.

You may have some light bleeding or spotting after cervical screening. This should stop within a few hours.

See a GP if:

You've had cervical screening and have:

heavy bleeding
spotting or light bleeding that does not stop after a few hours

Find out more about NHS cervical screening on GOV.UK

Sexual Health Advice

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