Cervical Smears
All women are encouraged to have regular smear tests to detect pre-cancerous
changes at the neck of the womb. You will be invited to attend routinely,
but if you would like to make your own appointment, please ask the receptionist. What is the Smear Test?It is not a 'cancer test'. It is a test to pick up very early changes
in the cervix which could become cancer in the future. However, 90% of
smears are normal.
 Results - What They Mean
- Negative: Your smear test is normal which means you
are at very low risk. However, should you experience abnormal bleeding
at any time you should see your doctor without delay.
- Inadequate/Unsatisfactory: Between 5-10% of smears are unsuitable
for testing and therefore have to be repeated.
- Abnormal Smears: Only 5-7% of smears are abnormal. This
means that there are changes which, if left untreated, may become cancer
in the future.
However, most of these changes return to normal without any treatment
being required. For this reason you are usually asked to return for a repeat
smear test in 3-6 months. If treatment is needed, it is almost 100% effective
involving a minor procedure in the local Outpatient Department.
ResultsYou will receive your results by post to your home address in approximately
6-8 weeks following your smear test. If you would like to discuss your results further, please phone the
nurse or make an appointment to see the nurse or doctor. |
