This Cervical Cancer Prevention week, the NHS in the Midlands is calling on those who are eligible to book their cervical screening appointments. Doctors and nurses are encouraging those who may have missed an appointment to come forwards, ‘it’s not too late’.

Those who have received an invitation for cervical screening can call their GP practice to book an appointment, with convenient evening and weekend appointments available at some GP practices. Some local sexual health services also offer cervical screening.

In the West Midlands over 31% of those invited missed their screening appointment and in the East Midlands over 29% of those invited missed their screening appointment.

The NHS Cervical Screening Programme saves thousands of lives every year by checking for high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a group of viruses that cause nearly all cervical cancers. Cervical screening checks for types of the HPV virus which can cause cell changes. However, having HPV does not mean that you have or will develop cervical cancer.

Around 2,700 people are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England every year, but it can be eliminated through cervical screening and the HPV vaccination.

The testing used in the NHS Cervical Screening Programme is the best way to find out who is at higher risk of developing the cervical cell changes that over time could potentially lead to cervical cancer.

Andrew Dalton, Screening Lead at NHS England in the Midlands, said:

“If you missed your last cervical screening, book an appointment with your GP practice now – it is not too late to book, and it can save your life. The test is quick, taking a few minutes and you will receive your results in around two weeks.

“Even if you’ve had a HPV vaccination it’s important that you attend your cervical screening appointment when invited because the HPV vaccine doesn’t protect against all strains of HPV.

Some people may feel worried or embarrassed about the screening itself, but your clinician at your GP practice or sexual health service will help you feel at ease and treat you with dignity when carrying out this important check. The test is very straightforward and there are many ways you can be made to feel more comfortable when you attend.”

Data released this week Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage in adolescents in England: 2022 to 2023 – GOV.UK shows that there has been an increase in uptake of the HPV vaccine among school pupils in the Midlands in comparison to 2021 / 2022 but it is still not as high as before the Covid pandemic.

The vaccine is given to school pupils aged 12 and 13 as well as to people at higher risk from HPV.

NHS Tips for women and people with a cervix booking and/or attending their cervical screening:

• We will do everything we can to make you feel comfortable. If you’re nervous, you can get in touch before or speak to us at the appointment to let us know you’d like support.
• If you’re nervous and need more time for your screening, ask the receptionist for a longer appointment when booking. You can also bring someone you trust to the appointment, such as a friend or family member.
• We might be able to offer you an evening and weekend appointments to make it more convenient for you to attend. Ask when you book.
• The majority of cervical screenings are performed by a female nurse or doctor, but you can request this when you book.
• During the appointment you can ask for a private space to undress from the waist down, as well as a sheet to cover you. You can also wear a long top or dress during the screening.
• If you’ve found the procedure uncomfortable in the past, we can discuss using a smaller speculum or trying a different position like lying on your side. You are in control of your screening appointment and can ask to stop at any time.
• You can bring your favourite music or podcast to listen to during your appointment if this helps put you at ease.
• We will take you through the process and give you lots of tips to ease any anxiety.
• If you have received your screening invitation, please don’t wait and book your appointment now.