Cervical Cancer Awareness:
The symptoms of cervical cancer are less obvious and can also mimic many other conditions, so it is important to attend smear tests when you are invited. You will be offered your first smear test at 25, and will then be invited to have one every 5 years. However, if you notice any symptoms of cervical cancer before the age of 25 or in between smear tests, you should speak to your GP. A smear test is an internal exam, carried out by a GP or nurse and takes 5-10 minutes.
Symptoms to look out for are irregular bleeding, bleeding or pain after sex, pain in lower abdomen, lower back or hips.
The HPV Vaccine:
HPV stands for human papilloma virus. The HPV Vaccine is offered to every Scottish pupil usually in S1, but it may be as late as S2 or S3. The HPV vaccine is offered in one dose and is shown to help protect against certain cancers caused by the HPV virus. These include cervical cancer which only impacts those with a cervix, as well as certain cancers of the head and neck – which are most common in males and people without a cervix. Around 75% of cervical cancer cases are thought to be caused by the HPV virus.
Preparing for a Smear Test:
If you have a cervix, you will be invited for regular smear tests starting at age 25. Some people find this daunting, for lots of reasons, but it is extremely important for your health. You can bring a parent, friend or other trusted person with you if you are feeling uncomfortable.
Many people don’t know what a smear test entails and that can sometimes be where the fear comes from. When you go for a smear test, you will meet with a nurse / doctor, who will ask you some questions. You will then be asked to undress from the waist down and lie up on a bed. The nurse / doctor will then insert a speculum to help open the vagina and take a small sample of cells from your cervix using a cotton swab. The person carrying out your smear will check regularly to make sure you are comfortable and will stop if you need them to. You can always directly ask them to stop. You usually receive your results in the post within a week.. They may also press on your tummy or the inside of the vagina to look for any lumps or sore / tender areas. A lot of people are put off seeing their GPs about these issues because they are embarrassed, but medical professionals really have seen it all! It could save your life.