Cervical Screening FAQs - Your cervical screening (smear) test appointment

The best time to attend for your cervical screening (smear) test is when you are not on your period.

If you have a regular cycle, please try to book your appointment for cervical screening either before or after your period.

If you have an irregular cycle and don’t know when your next period is due then please still book and attend your cervical screening (smear) test.

If you are bleeding on the day of your appointment, your sample taker can look at your cervix and assess whether or not they are able to take the cervical sample. This is because heavy bleeding can sometimes cause the test to be ‘inadequate’, meaning you would not receive a result but would instead be advised to return for a repeat cervical screening (smear) test in a minimum of 12 weeks’ time.

If you have bleeding when it should not be happening such as bleeding after sex, between periods or after the menopause, you should see your doctor, even if you have had a recent cervical screening (smear) test.

Discuss the issue with your sample taker who will assess the reasons for the pain or discomfort. One reason may be cervical atrophy, which is a shrinking of the cervix after menopause and is a normal process. If this is the reason, and it is not possible to obtain a test at that visit, your sample taker may recommend a course of topical oestrogen cream to be taken before a further appointment for cervical screening.

Please see your doctor if you have any symptoms, such as:

• Bleeding after sex, between periods or after the menopause
• New or different vaginal discharge (change in colour, amount or consistency)
• Lower tummy or back pains, or pain during sex