Cervical screening

All women between the ages of 25 and 65 years should have cervical smears performed at the regular intervals. Usually your GP sends a letter inviting you for routine smear. It is of vital importance to have regular smears. Every year almost 1000 women in the UK die of cervical cancer. It is estimated that cervical screening may prevent 75% cases of cancer in women who attend regularly. Majority of cervical cancers are preceded by the precancerous changes. These changes can be picked up by smears and easily treated. Most precancerous changes on the cervix are related to the infection with human papilloma virus (HPV). There are over 100 types of this virus; the infections are mostly transient unless caused by the aggressive types of the virus. Virtually all sexually active women have HPV infection at some stage of their lives.

We are now able to offer you not only the smear but also the HPV testing, therefore you will know if there is HPV infection on the cervix and if so what type of the virus causes infection. The results allow planning for appropriate treatment and the follow up if needed. If the results are negative we may be able reassure you.

Smear taking requires insertion of speculum to the vagina; it is easy to perform and takes less than a minute. In contrary to common fear this investigation does not cause pain, at worst some short-lived, mild discomfort. The results are usually available within 2 weeks.

To find more information about the cervical screening follow this link

Information

Cervical Screening

Menopause

Group B streptococcus infection (GBS)

Menorrhagia - heavy periods

Urinary incontinence - weak bladder

Early pregnancy problems