Publish date: 23 June 2022
Don't forget to go for your cervical screening test is the message from Merseyside GP and CMCA Primary Care Lead, Dr Debbie Harvey.
During Cervical Screening Awareness Week this week, Dr Harvey says the test only takes five minutes but is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer affects around 3,000 people in the UK every year. The cervical screening test detects human papillomavirus (HPV) and signs of early abnormal cells, which can turn into cervical cancer if not treated.
Dr Harvey, who is also Macmillan GP at NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Those aged 25 to 49 are offered screening every three years and 50 to 64 year olds are every five years. When it’s time for your next screening, you should be sent a letter inviting you to make an appointment.
“Almost one in three people don’t go for their cervical screening test but it is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from the risk of cervical cancer.
“The test only takes five minutes and your nurse or doctor is there to make you feel comfortable and help you with any questions you might have.”
Patients are also advised that if they become aware of any of the following symptoms before their next cervical screening test is due, to not wait to be screened, but to get in touch with their GP practice or community sexual health clinic:
- unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
- pain or discomfort during intercourse
- unexplained pain in your lower tummy
For more information, click here: https://mysefton.co.uk/2022/06/20/have-you-booked-your-cervical-screening-test/?fbclid=IwAR0E95X6mUB5K4GgYwJpAPquTWkd9CSfoM2qsf2ghd_at_aJ7AhH5NVpJhM