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Not an emergency service. If you or someone else is seriously unwell — for example chest pain, breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding or collapse — call 999. For urgent advice when it is not life-threatening, call NHS 111.

Recovery & Aftercare Guide

Cervical screening

A short screening test. Minimal aftercare, but some things are worth knowing.

Important. Your individual instructions from your treating clinician take precedence over this general information. If anything here differs from what your clinician has told you, follow your clinician’s advice and contact the hospital if you are unsure.

Overview

Cervical screening takes a small sample of cells from the cervix to test for high-risk HPV and, where relevant, cell changes.

It is a screening test rather than a test for cancer, and takes around 5 minutes within a 20-minute appointment.

Before your procedure

  • Book for a time when you are not having a period if possible. Light bleeding is usually acceptable but heavy bleeding can affect the sample.
  • Avoid vaginal medicines, creams, pessaries or lubricants for 2 days beforehand unless advised otherwise.
  • Wear something that is easy to change out of, such as a skirt or loose trousers.
  • Tell the team if you have had previous difficulty with screening, or if you would like a chaperone. A chaperone is always available.

Aftercare

Spotting

Light spotting for a day or two afterwards is common and normal.

Discomfort

Mild cramping similar to period pain can occur and settles quickly.

Activity

There are no restrictions. You can return to work, exercise and normal activity immediately.

Results

Results are usually available within 2 weeks. You will be told how you will receive them and what the next step is for each possible outcome.

Red flags — when to seek help

These lists are not exhaustive. Trust your judgement and seek advice if you are worried.

Contact us Contact the hospital, or call NHS 111 out of hours

  • Heavy bleeding, rather than light spotting, after the test
  • Bleeding that continues beyond 2 to 3 days
  • Offensive vaginal discharge, fever or lower abdominal pain in the days afterwards

Tower Bridge Hospital, 97–99 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1DT. Telephone 020 7916 0029. If in doubt and the situation is not life-threatening, call NHS 111.

Frequently asked questions

Will it hurt?

Most people find it uncomfortable rather than painful. Tell the clinician if you are finding it difficult; the test can be paused or adapted.

Can I request a female clinician or chaperone?

Yes. Both can be arranged. Ask when booking.

What if I have had a bad experience before?

Tell the team beforehand. Adjustments such as a smaller speculum, more time, or a different position can be made.

When will I get my results?

Usually within 2 weeks. The team will explain how results are sent and what happens next.

More information

Clinical reviewer
Dr Haydar Bolat, Clinical Director
Review date
21 July 2026
Review by
21 July 2027
Version
1.0
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