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What happens at your cervical screening appointment

Cervical screening involves taking a small sample of cells from your cervix for testing. It's usually done by a female nurse or doctor, who will explain the test and answer any questions you have before they start.

See what the cervix is
Diagram of the body highlighting the cervix as the opening between the vagina and the womb.
Your cervix is the opening of your womb from your vagina.
See what a speculum and brush may look like
Gloved hands holding a clear plastic speculum. The speculum is a narrow tube about 15cm long. It's in 2 parts and has a hinge and handle at one end so that it can be opened slightly at the other end. Inside the speculum a plastic brush is shown with soft bristles, which can be used to collect a sample of cells when the speculum is opened.
A speculum (plastic or metal) and soft brush are used to take a sample of cells from your cervix.

How cervical screening is done

  1. You'll need to undress, behind a screen, from the waist down. You'll be given a sheet to put over you.
  2. The nurse or doctor will ask you to lie back on a bed, usually with your legs bent, feet together and knees apart. Sometimes you may need to change position during the test.
  3. They'll gently put a smooth, tube-shaped tool (a speculum) into your vagina. A small amount of lubricant may be used.
  4. The nurse or doctor will open the speculum so they can see your cervix.
  5. Using a soft brush, they'll take a small sample of cells from your cervix.
  6. The nurse or doctor will close and remove the speculum and leave you to get dressed.

The cervical screening test itself should take less than 5 minutes. The whole appointment should take about 10 minutes.

Video: how cervical screening is done

This video shows someone having cervical screening. It shows an illustrated view of the inside of the body and explains what happens during the test.

Media last reviewed: 4 February 2022
Media review due: 4 February 2025

Important

You're in control of the cervical screening test and can ask to stop at any time.

Preparing for your cervical screening test

If you're worried about cervical screening, there are things you can try that might make the test easier for you.

Do

  • wear something you can leave on during the test, like a skirt or long jumper

  • bring someone with you for support

  • try breathing exercises to help you relax – ask the nurse or doctor about these

  • ask the nurse or doctor to use a smaller speculum if you feel any discomfort

  • ask if you can put the speculum in yourself if you would prefer to

  • ask about lying in a different position – such as on your side with your knees pulled up to your chest

  • bring something to listen to or read during the test

Don’t

  • do not feel pressured to keep going – you can ask to stop the test at any time

  • try not to be afraid or embarrassed to talk to the nurse or doctor – telling them how you feel will help them understand what kind of support you might need

Risks of cervical screening

You may have some light bleeding or spotting after cervical screening. This should stop within a few hours.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

You've had cervical screening and have:

  • heavy bleeding
  • spotting or light bleeding that does not stop after a few hours
Information:

Find out more about NHS cervical screening on GOV.UK

Page last reviewed: 26 June 2025
Next review due: 26 June 2028