Get Screened
Cervical Health at Wheeler
A simple cervical cancer screening can detect changes early—before they become cancer—giving you the power to protect your health and your future.
It’s a test, often called a “pap smear”, that checks the health of your cervix and looks for high-risk HPV, which can cause cervical cell changes and potentially lead to cancer.
During the test, the provider places a tool in the vagina to look at the cervix, gently brushes off a small cell sample, and sends it to a lab to be checked.
HPV is common in sexually active people, and most HPV infections clear on their own. However, persistent high-risk HPV can lead to cancer. HPV vaccination is highly effective at preventing infection and related cancers.
Most people with a cervix aged 25–64 should be screened regularly.
It can feel uncomfortable, but it should not hurt. Tell the nurse or medical provider if it does.
Try to avoid booking during your period. You don’t need to do anything to prepare for the test.
The test takes a few minutes.
Yes, of course! You are in control, and you can ask the provider to stop, to take a break, and request that a chaperone stays in the room during the test.
Results are usually ready within a few weeks. Your provider will explain what they mean and any next steps.
Most results are normal. If they are not, remember that often “abnormal” results do not mean cancer. An abnormal result usually means extra follow up with your provider and some more tests.
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sex
- Bleeding after menopause
- Pain during sex
- Ongoing pain in your lower tummy or back
- Unusual vaginal discharge (for example, heavy, watery, or with a bad smell)
These symptoms are often not serious, but it’s important to get them checked.