Cervical smear test

The cervical smear test is simple, quick and painless. It checks the health of the cervix (the lower part of the womb). For most women, it shows that the cells of the cervix are normal and healthy. The smear can show signs that cancer of the cervix may develop and the growth can be stopped by simple treatment before it even gets started.

You can get a smear test at your GP surgery, or at family planning or NHS sexual health (GUM) clinics.

Regular smear tests are important. They pick up the early warning signals that could save your life. The NHS now offers all women aged 20 to 64 a free cervical smear test every 3 to 5 years. You should be tested more often if cell changes are found when you have a smear.