Let’s be honest. Cervical screening isn’t exactly something anyone looks forward to.
It can feel awkward. Clinical. Vulnerable. For some people, it brings up fear, discomfort, or past experiences they’d rather not revisit. So if you’ve ever delayed, avoided, or ignored that reminder letter, you’re not alone.
But here’s the important bit.
Cervical screening is one of the most effective tools we have to prevent cervical cancer. In the UK alone, it’s estimated to save around 5,000 lives every year. Not through guesswork. Through early detection, before cancer ever has the chance to develop.
That makes it worth talking about. Especially during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
What a smear test actually does
A smear test isn’t a test for cancer. It’s a test to prevent it.
Cervical screening checks for high-risk HPV, the virus that causes most cervical cancers. If HPV is found, doctors can keep an eye on changes to cervical cells and treat them early, long before they become dangerous.
In other words, it’s quiet, preventative healthcare doing its job in the background. Not dramatic. Just effective.
If it feels daunting, that’s valid
No amount of “it’ll be fine” makes vulnerability disappear. But there are ways to make the appointment feel more manageable, and you’re allowed to advocate for yourself.
Here are some things that can help:
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Request a female practitioner if that makes you feel more comfortable.
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Ask for a smaller speculum if the one being used doesn’t feel right.
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Try a different position. Lying on your side with your knees up can feel less exposed and more comfortable for many people.
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Bring music or focus on your breathing. Blocking out the clinical noise can help your body relax.
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Bring a support person, or take mild pain relief beforehand if you’re worried about discomfort.
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You are in control. You can ask to pause or stop at any time. Consent doesn’t disappear once you’re in the room.
And if asking questions helps you feel calmer, ask them. That’s what the appointment is for.
The people doing your smear test are on your side
Nurses and clinicians who carry out smear tests do this every day. They’ve seen every body type, every reaction, every wobble of nerves. Their job isn’t to judge or rush you. It’s to keep you safe.
You don’t need to be brave. You don’t need to minimise how you feel. You just need to show up as you are.
If you’ve been putting it off
Consider this your gentle nudge, not a telling off.
Booking your smear test is an act of care for your future self. The version of you who doesn’t want to deal with bigger problems down the line. The version of you who deserves preventative healthcare that works.
If you’re due, it’s okay to feel nervous. And it’s still important to go.
Because this one small appointment really can make a life-saving difference.
👉 Find out more about cervical screening here.
Blog disclaimer
Our blog is intended to share information and ideas around periods, health, and sustainability. While we do our best to keep content accurate and up to date, things can change over time. The information here is not intended as medical advice — for any health-related concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. For more information on our claims, please see our Claims Page, and for the most up-to-date product information, please visit our Product Pages.
