Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally yet 1 in 3 women do not take up their screening invite. The Women’s Network is raising awareness to encourage their fellow colleagues to attend their screening appointments and try to help make cervical cancer a thing of the past.
Sadie Smith, Clinical and Digital Information Officer and Women’s Network member, said, “It’s really important that when you are invited for your smear test, you go. The test isn’t a test for cancer, it is a test to help prevent cancer. I remember when I first went for my screening, I was anxious about the appointment as I didn’t know what to expect but after the appointment, which was no longer than 10 minutes, I was glad I decided to go.”
To help prepare and reassure those who may be worried about an upcoming appointment, Sadie has put together ‘five things to know before your smear test.’
- It’s not as scary as you may think. Having a smear test is uncomfortable but it does not hurt.
- If you are worried and don’t want to do it alone, you can take someone with you.
- It is a very quick procedure usually taking less than a minute.
- You’re in control, you can ask the nurse to stop at any time.
- After the appointment, you can go about your day as normal.
For more information, visit the NHS website.