News and media releases from the Surrey Heartlands area
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Young women in Surrey encouraged to take up lifesaving cervical screening
The NHS in Surrey is supporting a region-wide campaign to encourage young women between the ages of 25-29 to book in for their cervical screening when invited.
The Love Your Cervix campaign launch coincides with cervical screening awareness week (19-24 June) and targets those who are either due or overdue their first and second screening appointments.
Through a social media, radio and advertising campaign, along with resources for GP practices and community organisations, Love Your Cervix is also aiming to dispel myths about cervical screening (also known as smear tests), and empower women to take control of their health and make an appointment to have their screening.
Mollie, 25, from Ashtead, Surrey was invited for her first screening in February and is encouraging other women to get booked in as soon as possible.
I had my screening a few months ago and I was worried it might be a bit painful, but it was completely fine and essentially just a swab.
I would recommend other 25-year-olds get it done as I have several friends who have had to have follow up tests after their screening so it’s definitely worth it.
Dr Charlotte Canniff, Surrey GP and Joint Chief Medical Officer for NHS Surrey Heartlands, said:
Cervical screening takes about 5 minutes - 5 minutes which could potentially save your life.
Having to attend any invasive medical procedure can feel frightening and many of us will put it off for as long as possible.
As a GP I want to remind young women that although it may feel daunting to you it is very routine for health practitioners, and you should never feel embarrassed.
Just remember, the practitioner carrying out your screening will likely have had a screening herself - so knows exactly how you feel!.
If you’ve been invited to attend your cervical screening, please book an appointment with your GP practice.