Make time for your smear test

Like most cancers the earlier cervical cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance for a cure. All women in the UK, from the ages of about 18 (or two years after first sexual intercourse) to 65 are entitled to a cervical smear every three to five years.

You should automatically be notified by your doctor or local health authority for a test that may be carried out by a practice nurse. But don't wait for your reminder: make an appointment yourself and remember the best time for a cervical smear is two weeks after your period.

How it's done
The smear test is quite simple. A speculum (a metal device used to dilate the vagina so that it can be inspected) is placed in your vagina and cells are skimmed from the surface of the cervix - or, if you've had a total hysterectomy, from the wall of the vagina - then smeared onto a glass slide. It may be uncomfortable but shouldn't be painful and you can have it done by a female nurse if you wish.