In support of European Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (23-29 January), CervicalCheck – The National Cervical Screening Programme is encouraging all women aged 25 to 60 have a free smear test.
A smear test only takes a few minutes and it is the most effective way to detect changes in the cells of the cervix (neck of the womb). The earlier cell changes are found, the easier they are to treat. There is a choice of over 4,150 male and female GPs, doctors and practice nurses nationwide – and it’s free.
Maeve Cusack, Head of Screening Promotion at the National Cancer Screening Service said: “CervicalCheck is delighted to support European Cervical Cancer Prevention Week. As cervical cancer is a preventable disease, we encourage all women aged 25 to 60 to take a few minutes out of their busy day to look after their health and have a free smear test. To celebrate European Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, CervicalCheck is hosting a number of information sessions. Any woman who would like to learn more about cervical screening and the benefits of a regular smear test is invited to attend. For details of all events see the ‘News & Events’ section of www.cervicalcheck.ie”.
How to arrange your free smear test
To arrange a smear test you can contact a registered smeartaker of your choice to make an appointment. Thousands of GPs, practice nurses, Women’s Health, Family Planning and Well Woman Clinics all over Ireland are registered. For details of all registered GPs, doctors and practice nurses you can call CervicalCheck on 1800 45 45 55 or visit www.cervicalcheck.ie.
CervicalCheck also sends invitation letters to women who are on the CervicalCheck register. You can check that you are on the register by calling Freephone 1800 45 45 55 or check on-line at www.cervicalcheck.ie.
If you have already had a CervicalCheck smear test, CervicalCheck will let you know by post when your next smear test is due – and if you change address, be sure to let CervicalCheck know your new contact details.
How often should you have a smear test?
It is recommended that women have a smear test every three to five years, depending on your age.
The results
Most smear test results are found to be perfectly normal and CervicalCheck will contact you about your results within four weeks of having your free smear test.