Cervical screening (also known as a ‘smear test’) is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against cervical cancer, yet many delay or miss their appointment.
Mount Pleasant Health Centre are encouraging all eligible patients to take up their invitation when it arrives.
What is Cervical Screening?
Cervical screening is a simple test that checks the health of your cervix. It looks for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause changes to the cells of the cervix. Detecting these changes early means they can be monitored or treated before they turn into cancer.
Who is invited?
- Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited for screening by the NHS.
- Ages 25-49: every 3 years
- Ages 50-64: every 5 years
- Ages 65+: Only if a recent test was abnormal
You’ll receive a letter through the post when it’s time to book your test.
Why it matters
Cervical cancer is largely preventable and, when caught early, treatment is highly effective. Regular screening helps save around 2,000 lives in the UK every year. Even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine, it’s still important to attend your screening.
What to expect
The test only takes a few minutes and is usually carried out by a female nurse. It might feel a little uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful. Your nurse will explain each step and answer any questions before starting.
Book your appointment today!
If you’ve received your screening invitation, please don’t put it off. Book your appointment as soon as you can.
You can call us on 01392 255722 or submit an eConsult online to book an appointment: https://mountpleasanthealthcentre.webgp.com/
If you’re feeling nervous or unsure about the test, our nurses are here to talk you through what to expect and help make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Early detection saves lives.
Take up your cervical screening invitation. It’s a small step that could make a big difference.
NHS Website
For further details about Cervical Screening, please visit the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/cervical-screening/
Page created: 30th October 2025
Page updated: 11th November 2025