Cervical Smear Women aged between 25 and 65 years are advised to have a regular cervical smear test. You will be sent an invitation to make an appointment. The test is done by our practice nurses.

The Results
The results of a cervical smear test take approximately 4 weeks. You will be informed of the result by letter. If you have not received a letter by the end of this time please contact the surgery. We cannot chase the results until at least 4 weeks from the date of the smear was taken.

Repeat Smears
Sometimes the cytology department requests a smear is repeated. This is usually because there are insufficient cells for a complete and reliable result. You will be notified in writing if a repeat smear is required.

Abnormal Smears
The cells of the cervix are vulnerable to abnormal changes and these may show on the smear you have had taken. Should there be any changes you will be notified in writing and advised when your next smear is due. You may be referred for further investigation called a colposcopy. This appointment will be sent to you directly from the hospital. You may find that you receive this before your smear result. Should you have any queries or concerns please ring and speak to a Practice Nurse.

AN ABNORMAL SMEAR DOES NOT MEAN YOU HAVE CANCER

Infections
An infection may be identified from the smear and the cytology department may ask that this be treated, and then the cervical smear test be repeated. You may be sent a prescription with a letter giving the appropriate time interval for you to have the cervical smear test repeated. You may be asked to make an appointment with the practice nurse for vaginal swabs to be taken.

Recalls
The majority of smears are negative with a normal recall of 3-5 years. You may be given a different recall date depending on the result of the smear test.