Cytology for any Specimen (Specimen Name:

Specimen Required

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

To screen for early abnormalities (pre-cancer) which, if left untreated, could lead to cervical cancer.

When this test is required

In England a woman registered with a GP receives her first invitation at the age of 25. There are three-yearly examinations between 25 and 49, and five-yearly examinations between 50 and 65.

What the Test Detects

A cervical cytology test is a test used to detect abnormal or potentially abnormal cells from the uterine cervix (neck of the womb), and to test for infection with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). How is the sample collected for testing? The method consists of sampling cells from the cervix. A doctor or nurse inserts an instrument (a speculum) to open the woman’s vagina so that they can see the cervix. The sample of cells from the…A cervical cytology test is a test used to detect abnormal or potentially abnormal cells from the uterine cervix (neck of the womb), and to test for infection with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). How is the sample collected for testing? The method consists of sampling cells from the cervix. A doctor or nurse inserts an instrument (a speculum) to open the woman’s vagina so that they can see the cervix. The sample of cells from the surface of the cervix is obtained using a small brush. Most women consider the procedure to be only mildly uncomfortable although some have more discomfort, but it should not be painful. The specimen containing cells from the cervix is put into a special liquid preservative. This cell suspension is processed in the laboratory and the cells are transferred onto a glass slide, stained, and examined under a microscope. The fluid is also be tested for high risk human papilloma virus (HPV) types. During 2019 and onwards, the HPV test will become the primary (first) test performed. This change follows research in Canada and the UK which shows that it improves the effectiveness of screening. Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample? You may be asked to refrain from sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours before the test, avoid using vaginal creams or foams in the 48 hours before the test and book the test appointment 10-14 days after the beginning of your last menstrual period. See MoreSee Less

Preparation for the Test

You may be asked to refrain from sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours before the test, avoid using vaginal creams or foams in the 48 hours before the test and book the test appointment 10-14 days after the beginning of your last menstrual period.

Sample Requirements

Cells from the cervix (neck of the womb)

Additional Notes

Cervical cytology is used as a screening test in the well-established national screening programmes. Occasionally, abnormalities may go undetected with a single test. This is why it is important to be screened regularly. The sample represents only some of cells present on the cervix. Even when carried out by a very experienced nurse or doctor, sample collection can occasionally collect too few cells to give a reliable result and a repeat cervical cytology test may be required. This happens in fewer than 3 in 100 tests. Using HPV testing as the first step should decrease the number of inadequate or unreliable results.Cervical cytology was formerly known as the smear test. When performed routinely every 3-5 years, it is a great help in the detection and treatment of cervical abnormalities known as Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN). Early detection and treatment of CIN can prevent about 75% of cervical cancers developing.If you have any abnormal bleeding, for example, after sexual intercourse, between periods or after the menopause, it is important that you speak to your general practitioner. Your GP will be able to tell you whether you need to be referred to a gynaecologist for further investigation. Routine cervical cytology is not appropriate in these circumstances.

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