Let’s Talk Smears and The Changes!

I have spoken about Smear tests and my experience before but the changes to the time frame of testing is slightly worrying so lets talk about it..

For the past 2 years, my smears have come back being HPV positive. Most people have HPV at some point in their lives and most of the time it goes away on its own but if it doesn’t it can put you more at risk of turning in to cancer or cancerous cells which can make finding out about HPV more scary. I know I was worried when I first got the letter that told me that I had it. Thankfully, there wasn’t abnormal cells but I was still HPV positive a year later so this year I have to have yet another smear test and then go from there.

Smear tests aren’t the most lovely of experiences but it could save your life and they are so incredibly important.

So what are the changes?

Currently in England, the gap between smear test for people with a cervix aged between 25 and 49 years is 3 years but it is being recommended that it is changed to 5 years. The smear tests have changed and now detected HPV as well as abnormal cells and changes. Almost all cervical cancer is cased by HPV and that is why it is so important to get a smear test. Smear tests have come along way in past years and the tests they carry out now are the best they have ever been which is why they are recommended to change it from 3 to 5 years.

But is it really a good idea?

Personally, I am worried about the change. 5 years is a long time and so much can change in that time frame. If there is anything wrong at least if you catch it early, there is a chance everything will be ok with treatment. I think changing to 5 years means more people will forget to go for smears or think they aren’t as important as the time frame as changed.

Smears are one of the most important things you can do for your health and wellbeing. It can save your life. Go for your smears.

What do you think?