NHS COVENTRY & WARWICKSHIRE DISPEL COMMON MYTHS TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF CERVICAL CANCER PREVENTION WEEK
21 January 2025
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet it continues to affect over 3,000 women and people with a cervix across the UK every year.
By taking simple preventative steps like attending cervical screenings, getting vaccinated against HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), and understanding the symptoms to look out for, you can significantly reduce your risk of cervical cancer.
However, myths and misinformation often discourage people from accessing these life-saving services.
The NHS in Coventry and Warwickshire is addressing common myths and cultural barriers to encourage women to take proactive steps for their cervical health.
What is involved in cervical screening?
Cervical screening, also known as a smear test, is designed to detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they have a chance to develop into cancer. Some people think they don’t need to attend screening because they feel fine, but screening is a preventative test rather than one based on symptoms, so it’s important you attend when invited.
Even if you have had the HPV vaccine in the past, you should still go for your screening. The vaccine, which is routinely offered to girls and boys aged 11 to 18, protects against the high-risk types of HPV but does not totally prevent the risk of developing cervical cancer.
All women between the ages of 25 and 64 should receive a letter in the post inviting them to make an appointment. Those under 25 will receive a letter up to 6 months before they turn 25, women aged 25-49 are invited for screening every three years and women aged 50-64 every five years.
The test is quick (around five minutes) and typically carried out by a female nurse or doctor who will make the experience as comfortable as possible. While some people feel slight discomfort, it should not be painful and you can request adjustments, such as a smaller speculum, to make it easier.
If you missed your last cervical screening, you do not need to wait for a letter to book an appointment. Extended access appointments are also available for those who are unable to attend appointments in regular GP surgery time - you can book an extended access appointment via your usual GP practice.
If you have concerns or cultural barriers affecting your decision to attend screening, consider speaking with your GP or a community health advocate who can provide guidance tailored to your needs.
While screening and vaccination are powerful preventative tools, it’s also important to be aware of cervical cancer symptoms and seek medical advice if you experience them.
Symptoms to watch out for include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, especially after sex or between periods
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- Unexplained changes in vaginal discharge.
Joseph Hardwicke, System Clinical Cancer Lead for Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board and University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire, said:
“I would urge people who are invited for their cervical screening to take time out of their day to attend the appointment. It’s an important test and if there’s anything you find worrying about the procedure, whether it be other people’s experiences, the thought of potential discomfort or cultural barriers, please talk to your GP.
“Your healthcare professional can explain exactly what the test involves and any next steps, and make adjustments to the screening to make you as comfortable as possible.”
For further information and support on cervical cancer prevention and symptoms of cervical cancer, please visit the NHS website.