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It sounds much worse than it is! As part of general and sexual health, women of all ages should be aware of the risks of cervical cancer. As with most health issues, looking after yourself and reducing the risks minimises the chance of developing cervical abnormalities.

Cervical screening is not a test for cancer, but is a method of preventing cancer by detecting any abnormalities which, if left untreated, could lead to cancer in the cervix. This is usually done by either a smear test or LBC (liquid based cytology).

All women should have regular smear tests whether engaged in sexual activity or not, to prevent the development of cervical cancer.

You may be more at risk of developing cervical cancer if you:

· Or your partner has had several sexual partners (heterosexual or homosexual) without practising safe sex.

· Had sexual intercourse or a first pregnancy at an early age.

· Have had other sexually transmitted infections or diseases, such as Chlamydia, herpes, genital warts or HIV.

· Smoke (or your partner smokes)

· Have never had a smear test.

This does not mean that if you fall into one of these categories that you should panic or that you will automatically develop cervical cancer. However, to reduce the risks it is wise to take the following measures.

· Practice Safer Sex, preferably using barrier methods such as condoms.

· Give up or cut down on your smoking.

· Have regular smear tests.

It is not true that if you are a lesbian then you don't need a smear test. And, it is not true that if you've never had children or are not particularly sexually active then you don't need to be tested. I repeat once again…

All women should have regular smear tests whether engaged in sexual activity or not, to prevent the development of cervical cancer.

What is a smear test?

A sample of cells is smeared onto a slide which is sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.

What is Liquid Based Cytology?

Liquid based Cytology (LBC) is a new method in preparing the cervical samples for analysis. The sample is collected in a similar way to the conventional smear, using a special device which brushed off the cells from the cervix. Instead of smearing the sample onto a microscope slide, like the conventional smear, the head of the brush where the cells are lodged is broken off into a small glass vial containing preservative fluid. The sample is sent to the laboratory, and the sample is spun and treated to remove any obscuring material such as mucus or pus, and a random sample of the remaining cells is taken for analysis.

The test itself.

A small instrument is inserted into the vagina and a sample of cells taken from the surface of the cervix with a tiny spatula. This is not painful although some women report mild discomfort. The more you relax the less uncomfortable it can be. The sample will then be sent off and examined for abnormal cells. Occasionally the results are unclear and a repeat test may need to be done. If the test is positive, the cervix can be treated so that any abnormal cells are destroyed.

It is understandable that some women are uncomfortable with the concept of a smear test but it is a necessary and important procedure. It is worth bearing in mind that the doctor or nurse performing the procedure will have done so hundreds of times before. Whilst it can seem terribly embarrassing for the women having the test, the doctor or nurse probably views it as another routine procedure. And, in most cases they will be sensitive to the fact that you are nervous and embarrassed… most women having smear tests are! Many women find it helps to ask specifically for a female doctor or nurse. That is a perfectly reasonable request and one that is quite common so don't be afraid to ask.

If you have never had a smear test then make an appointment for one now and get it out of the way… women are advised to attend a test every 3-5 years.

There are several places you can go to have a smear test

· Your GP

· The Campus Medical Centre ext.94130

· The Ashton community care clinic * 01524 387401

Or you can contact the following for further information or details of clinics.

· Sexual health direct helpline 0845 310 1334 (Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm)

· NHS Direct - 0845 4647 providing information, advice and details of medical services

If you want to discuss any concerns you may have than you can drop in and see the women's officer in the student union building (under spar), on ext. 92197 or email her at su-womens@lancaster.ac.uk