How to make smear tests more comfortable, as NHS considers at-home kits

Hannah Millington
Updated
Smear test. (Getty Images)
You should never feel too embarrassed or uncomfortable to attend a smear test. (Getty Images)

With the NHS looking at rolling out at-home smear tests after researchers estimated this would increase uptake of screenings by around 400,000 a year, the need for women to feel more comfortable about testing is clear.

Women between 25 and 64 are invited to their cervical screening every three to five years, but one in three don't attend, with the numbers declining over the years. There are more than 3,000 new cases of cervical cancer in the UK each year, of which 99.8% are preventable by attending regular screenings and getting the HPV vaccine.

A previous Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust survey revealed many women are embarrassed to attend smear tests because of their body shape, the appearance of their vulva and and concerns over smelling 'normally'. A third even admitted they wouldn't go if they hadn't waxed or shaved their bikini area.

So while news of the potential DIY tests comes as a welcome solution, which would hopefully help to bridge the gap, Dr. Raj Arora reminds us of the importance of attending cervical screenings and shares her top tips for feeling comfortable and empowered at an appointment.

doctor explaining uterus model to woman in hospital
Cervical screenings help to prevent cervical cancer. (Getty Images) (PonyWang via Getty Images)

"Cervical screening helps prevent cervical cancer by detecting high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) that is associated with cervical cancer. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, making it crucial to identify individuals at risk of cervical cell changes that may lead to cancer. If changes are detected early during screening, they can be treated to prevent the development of cancer," explains Dr. Arora.

"HPV is a common virus, so having it does not necessarily mean one will develop cancerous changes in the cervical cells."

Half of the worry comes from not knowing what to expect if it's your first one, or if it's a been a while and your memory is hazy.

"During a smear test, a nurse or doctor uses a speculum, an instrument available in different sizes, to gently open the vagina and visualize the cervix. Although this can be slightly uncomfortable, it is very quick," says Dr. Arora.

"Lubricant can be used to make the process smoother. A brush with soft bristles is then used to take cells from the cervix, which are sent off for analysis at the lab."

When attending in person smear tests, are Dr. Arora's top tips for still feeling in control and at ease.

  1. Communicate with your doctor: "If you’ve had a painful smear test before or are worried about it, discuss this with your doctor. You can also take simple pain relief before your appointment."

  2. Dress comfortably: "You will need to remove your lower clothing for the test, which can make you feel cold. Wear warm clothing and socks to stay comfortable."

  3. Relax pelvic muscles: "Try to keep your pelvic muscles relaxed during the test. Distracting yourself can help with this."

  4. Empty your bladder: "It's a good idea to empty your bladder before the test to avoid discomfort."

  5. Request a smaller speculum: "If you've had a smear test before or are worried about your first test, you can ask for a smaller speculum."

  6. 'The most important': "Remember doctors and nurses have seen many vulvas and vaginas before so please don't feel embarrassed or self-conscious. We're here to help, we're here to carry out your tests, and we're here to help keep you safe!"

       

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