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Cervical Smear Test - Picture Summary

This page gives a brief summary of the cervical smear test. A page giving more detailed information is also available.
Cervical Smear Test

Some key points

 
  • The smear test aims to prevent cancer, not to detect cancer.
  • Some cells are scraped off the cervix and 'smeared' on a glass slide. These are looked at under a microscope.
  • Most smear tests are normal.
  • About 1 in 10 tests show abnormal cells. These are rarely cancer.
  • Minor abnormal changes in the cells need checking by a repeat smear in a few months.
  • More serious abnormal changes in the cells can be treated before they turn to cancer.
  • Every woman aged 25-64 is advised to have a smear at least every 3-5 years. (Women aged 25-49 are usually invited three yearly and women aged 50-64 five yearly.)
 
©EMIS and PIP 2004   Updated: March 2004   CHIQ Accredited
 
 
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