A comprehensive guide to smear tests
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Screening for cervical cancer plays a crucial role in women’s lives, contributing to cervical cancer prevention. Distinguished consultant in sexual and reproductive health Dr Emily Lord explains everything you need to know about smear tests, answering your frequently asked questions about the programme.
What is a smear test?
The cervical cancer screening programme plays a pivotal role in women’s healthcare. ‘Having your smear test’ taken involves a speculum examination, where a small plastic device is inserted into the vagina to visualise the cervix. A brush sample is taken, sent to a special lab to check for any evidence of human papillomavirus (HPV). Detecting HPV early allows for timely treatment, often preventing cancer development.
What is HPV?
HPV is a group of sexually transmitted viruses, highly prevalent with over 70% of sexually active individuals experiencing infection, most people clear the virus on their own within months. There are over 200 strains; while some types of...
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