Fiona Simpson
Practice Nurse
Hello, I’m Fiona, one of the Practice Nurses at JHP. Over the last few weeks, we’ve had some queries from patients asking about cervical screening.
Back in March, the difficult decision was made to pause the cancer screenings programmes for breast, bowel and cervical cancer. This reduced the number of people who could possibly be exposed to COVID-19 in Hospitals and GP surgeries, and allow staff to support other critical services.
As these services restart, there are of course a lot of people who are now waiting for their screening, and it will take a while for the NHS to catch up.
So if your screening is overdue or would have been coming up soon and you’re yet to get an invitation – don’t worry, you’ve not been forgotten. Please remember too that invitations for routine screening are sent to healthy people without symptoms.
If you do have any symptoms – especially unusual bleeding – please don’t wait to get in touch.
Will the screening process be the same as before?
In terms of the actual procedure, yes, it will be the same. You can read more about what happens and what to expect here.
But there will be increased safety and infection control measures, as there are throughout the NHS. Masks or other facial coverings are required to be worn by patients in all NHS settings, and you may also be asked to wear gloves. All staff will be wearing Personal Protective Equipment for both your safety and theirs.
To reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection, it is not currently possible to bring someone with you to your appointment.
If you’re currently self-isolating with coronavirus symptoms, please do not attend a screening if invited. You can get in touch to reschedule for a future date.
I hope that information is useful to you, and do please contact the practice if you have any other queries about cervical screening.