All women aged between 25 and 64 years are offered a cervical smear test at regular intervals. This is carried out by the practice nurse.

A reminder that a smear test is due is sent out directly from the health authority and results are are notified in writing.

Occasionally the test needs to be repeated. This does not necessarily mean that there is any serious concern about a test result. Remember the smear test is for pre-cancerous changes so abnormalities can be dealt with before any cancer cell have a chance of developing.  If you want to know more about the cervical screening programme click here