Monday 19 June 2023
The Guernsey message for Cervical Screening Awareness Week this year is 'don't worry - your nurse has seen it all before!
Feeling embarrassed is a common obstacle to cervical screening. This can be especially true if it is someone's first test. Any gynaecological examination or test can cause this reaction because this is a part of the body that may not be shared with many others - particularly healthcare professionals.
However, there are some things people can do if they are feeling worried and these include wearing a long skirt on the day of your screening, bringing your own piece of clothing to help cover up (you will be given a sheet or piece of paper to cover up if you want one) contact your GP practice, Choices or the Orchard Centre in advance if you have questions or bring someone with you if you would like support (a chaperone).
Di Mathews, Public Health Practitioner for screening said:
'Lots of people worry about shaving or waxing before a cervical screening appointment which is completely unnecessary. It's important to remember that nurses and GPs have seen it all before and their only concern is doing the best job they can.
Cervical screening is available for women and anyone with a cervix aged between 25 and 65. Appointments are FREE OF CHARGE when seen by a nurse and are very quick (approximately 15 minutes).
If you are registered with a GP, you will be invited when your next test is due so, please only make an appointment when you have been invited.
But if you are in any way worried about cervical screening, please give your normal surgery or clinic a call and they can arrange for someone to talk to you before you book. Alternatively, look out for the informal drop-in sessions which will be hosted by Choices for people to simply pop in and ask questions before making an appointment.'
Anyone with symptoms such unusual bleeding, changes to discharge or unexpected pain should contact their GP. More information about cervical screening can be found at: https://www.gov.gg/screening.
