What is a cervical smear test?

A smear test is a medical procedure that checks for abnormal cervical cells. It is sometimes called a pap smear test, cervical smear, cervical screening or cervical cytology, but they all mean the same thing. Smear tests check the health of your cervix (that's the small canal that connects your vagina to your womb) and detect any abnormal changes that could, at some point, turn into cancer. While all of that can sound worrying, it's important to remember that it's not a test for cancer, it's a test to help prevent it. It's very normal to feel nervous about having one, but it's an important thing to do to look after your long-term health. 

We'll break down why smear tests are done and what exactly doctors are looking for during the procedure. Smear tests aren't usually a one-off occasion, so we'll also explain how often people get them done and who might not need an appointment. Every question is valid, and we're here to ease any concerns you may have and ensure you feel supported. 

The cell sample taken during your smear test will be tested for HPV, which is the name of a very common group of viruses. Most of them are harmless, but the high-risk types can, in some rare cases, develop into cancer.^[2] This can sound scary, but smear tests are a really effective way of preventing this from happening.

How do you catch HPV?

HPV lives in the skin and is therefore passed from person to person through close skin-to-skin contact. This means that HPV is often spread during sexual activity, but it doesn't have to be penetrative. You can also get HPV from sharing sex toys, engaging in oral sex, or any other type of close skin-to-skin contact.^[2]

Is HPV an STI?

While HPV is technically classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it's important to understand that it can remain dormant for many years.^[6] This means that either you or your partner might have contracted HPV long before your current relationship. Because HPV can go undetected for such a long time, pinpointing when or from whom it was contracted is often impossible (and unnecessary). 

If your smear test results are positive for HPV, it's natural to feel concerned, but it's reassuring to remember that this is a common virus that many people carry at some point in their lives. ^[2]

How can I protect myself from HPV?

There are many ways to protect yourself from HPV, and one of the most effective is through vaccination. It's natural to feel a little apprehensive about vaccines, but there's a high chance you have already had it. This vaccine gently helps your body by tricking it into thinking it has been exposed to the virus, encouraging it to create antibodies that can fight HPV. This means that if you ever encounter HPV in the future, your body is already prepared with the defences needed to protect you. ^[7] 

The HPV vaccine has been shown to reduce cervical cancer rates by 90% for women in their 20s if they had the vaccine at the age of 12 or 13 (before they were sexually active). A smear test provides further protection by detecting HPV in cases where someone hasn't had the vaccine, or it hasn't worked.

In fact, one study has shown that together, HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening could reduce cervical cancer to the point where nearly no one develops it. ^[8]This is why it's important to consider having both, as they work hand in hand to provide you with the most effective protection possible.

Aside from people under the age of 25, there are a few other people who aren't advised to have a cervical screening test. Reasons not to have a smear test include:^[11]

1. If you are over the age of 65

Once you're above the age of 65, the likelihood that you will develop cervical cancer is very low. This means you'll probably stop being invited for a smear test. 

2. If you have had a miscarriage in the last 3 months

Going through a miscarriage can be a really difficult experience, and it's important you take care of yourself during this time. If this is something you've experienced recently, it's best to reschedule an upcoming smear test. Taking this time allows your body to heal and ensures that you receive the most accurate results.

3. If you're pregnant

Pregnancy can also make it tricky to get clear results, so it can be a good idea to wait for 3 months after giving birth before having a smear test. 

4. If you don't have a cervix

If you don't have a cervix, cervical cancer screening is unnecessary. 

5. If you have symptoms of cervical cancer

It's completely natural to feel worried if you're experiencing symptoms that are unusual for you. If you notice anything like pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding, you don’t have to wait until your next smear test to seek help. Speaking to your doctor as quickly as possible gives them the best chance of catching cervical cancer early. Most of the time, these symptoms are caused by other problems, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. 

6. You're on your period

It's best to book your smear test for when you're not on your period, as heavy bleeding  can sometimes lead to inadequate results.^[12] If you're unsure when your next period is, our period tracker can help you predict when it's due. 

Remember, you're not alone in feeling anxious about a smear test, and it's completely normal to have questions and concerns. By staying informed and understanding the process, you are taking a positive step towards protecting your health. Healthcare professionals are there to support you every step of the way, ensuring your experience is as comfortable as possible. Your wellbeing is important, and by attending regular screenings, you're prioritising your health in the best possible way.

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