The Logistics of a Smear Test

LegacyUser

Hey. I'm not looking for medical advice - just practical.

I feel I need a smear test. I'm old and sexually active enough to have my first. But I don't know how it works. Do I go to a GP or a gynecologist?
I don't have time to be referred as I live abroad and will literally be home for three days (can't get it done abroad - long story).

So, do I ring the GP and ask for it to be done there? Do I need to give advance warning in case it will take a long time? Does every GP do it?

Little nervous so would love some advice on this!Thanks.

Kooli

Just had mine this morning!!

Yes, your GP will do it. Just book an appointment and say that's what it's for.

There's a national programme called CervicalCheck where everyone gets their smear for free, but I presume you aren't registered with that so just book it and pay as normal.

Good luck!

Morag

Get in touch with your GP, some do them and some don't and if they don you can book an appointment if not you can ring a IFPA or Well Woman clinic for when you are home and book an apointment with them.

They take about 20 mins but you can't have one when you are having your period or just afterwards.

Neyite

Log onto Cervicalcheck.ie, and enter your details. The website gives you a reference number so print that out or take it down. They send you a letter - but dont hold your breath for it, mine took about 3 months. It would be stupid to pay for it when you are entitled to it for free.

Book with the Gp/Practice nurse in your local surgery. Aim for mid-cycle, because if you are just starting/finishing your period your result will be unclear, and that can be a worrying letter to get.

The procedure itself is done in minutes, and is not painful. Results take a couple of months (in my case)

the glass woman

Just had one this morning too..:o

If you go onto www.cervicalcheck.ie I think you can register yourself and then you will receive a letter in the post which you need to bring with you on the day. It's up to you to find a place to have it done, there's a full list of participating places online. I rang around a few places and then chose to have it done where I could make an appointment instead of just queuing in a GP's surgery, as I work for myself and had only a short time to spare. Also I wanted a female and my GP is male. It took about 15 minutes and they post the results in about 3-5 weeks. Also you only need to have one every 3 years if everything is normal.

The important bit is that the optimum time to have it done is between day 12 and 14 though you can have it done up to 7 days before your next period is due.

Good Luck

LegacyUser

Thanks everyone! These are the kind of things they should teach in school. Was raised without a mother so really don't know these things. Unfortunately I don't have time to wait for a letter, don't know where I'll be in 3 months. I really want one now as I feel at my age it's time to get moving! I have a few days in Ireland so I'd really like to get it done there. Guess I'll just have to ring and see if my GP does it!

Thanks again