Cervical Screening Reminder Letter: Alternate Languages
Click the buttons below for translations of the NHS cervical screening third reminder letter.
If your language isn’t listed, try using the built-in translation tools in the top right of the site. (These translations are automatic, so Gosforth and Jesmond Health can’t accept responsibility for their accuracy.)
Dear Patient,
We are sending you this letter because your smear test (cervical screening) is due.
It’s your choice if you want to go for cervical screening. But cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect you from cervical cancer.
This letter will give you information to help you make an informed decision. Details of how to reply are at the end of this letter.
What is a smear test?
A smear test is a simple procedure that takes about 5 minutes. A small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix with a soft brush. The sample is checked for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix.
You will be in control of the procedure and it will be carried out with dignity and respect. We will do everything we can to make your smear as quick and as comfortable as possible.
Who should have a smear test?
It’s offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64, every 3 or 5 years depending on age.
Even if you’ve had a normal test in the past, it is still important to have tests in the future.
Why is it important?
Cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer.
Smear tests help us detect and prevent cancer before it develops. It’s not a test for cancer. It’s a test to help prevent cancer.
In England around 2,700 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year. Which is why attending your appointment is so important.
What if I’ve had the HPV vaccine?
Even if you have had the HPV vaccine, that doesn’t mean that you can’t catch HPV. So it’s important that you still attend your smear test appointment.
What do I do if I am, or have recently been pregnant?
You must wait 12 weeks after childbirth to book your appointment.
Can I bring someone with me?
A chaperone will always be offered. Or, if it makes you feel more comfortable, you can bring a loved one to your appointment for support.
When will I get my results?
Your cervical screening results are usually sent to you in a letter. This usually takes between 2 and 6 weeks. If you don’t receive them in this time, contact your practice nurse.
What do I do next?
Call your GP practice and update them with one of the following three options:
- You would like to book your smear test appointment. You can also have this appointment at one of the Primary Care Centres on an evening or a week end. Your Surgery can book this appointment.
- You understand this letter and don’t want your smear test. You want to opt out.
- You are not sure what to do and would like someone to contact you.
Further information about cervical screening can be found here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/.
We hope this letter has been helpful.
Yours sincerely,