Cervical Check Screening Programme

Cervical cancer can present with

• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Bleeding between periods
• Pain during or Bleeding after intercourse

If you experience these symptoms make an urgent appointment with your GP

Cervical Screening

• Aims to catch cervical cancer early or even at the precancer stage before women develop any symptoms

• Your Smear sample is tested for 
• Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) 
• If HPV is found, the sample then goes on to have further testing to see if any abnormal looking cells can be seen, which may be reported as Cervical Intra-epithelial Neoplasia (CIN). 

• Cervical screening is free in Ireland for all women 25-65 years
• Women 25-29 years will have 3 yearly routine screening
• Women over 30 years will have 5 yearly routine screening 

• Book an appointment with the practice nurse if your smear is due, ideally in the middle of your menstrual cycle. 
• Your smear test cannot be carried out while you have your period.

To register with Cervical check or check when your next smear is due log onto the Cervical Check Website, click here.

Results

• Results are sent to the patient and the practice 6-8 weeks following the smear test being carried out
• The results will say if you have tested positive or negative for HPV
• If you have tested positive for HPV, a further test will be carried out to look for any abnormal cells, so this will be reported also.
• Based on both of these results you will be advised when your next smear is due.