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Guide to Cervical Screening

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19 January 2026

•

8 minute read

Guide to Cervical Screening

By Dr. Nurliyana Binti Abdul Razak

All you need to know to ease your mind, including how to prepare, what to bring, wear

Cervical screening is one of the most effective preventive healthcare measures for women. Despite its importance, many women feel anxious, unsure or hesitant about the process.

In this article, we ask Columbia Asia Hospital Setapak consultant obstetrician and gynecologist Dr Liyana Abdul Razak common questions from patients. These

answers will help women feel informed, prepared and confident about attending their cervical screening appointment.

When Is the Best Time to Schedule a Cervical Screening?

The best time to schedule a cervicalscreening is when you are not menstruating, ideally about five to 10 days after your menstrual period has ended. During this time, the cervix is
easier to visualise, and there is less blood or discharge that could interfere with the sample quality. Scheduling at the right time improves the accuracy of the test and reduces thelikelihood of needing a repeat screening.

Are There Scenarios IN Which a Patient Should Consider Rescheduling Their Appointment?

Yes. Patients should consider rescheduling if they are experiencing active menstrual bleeding, heavy vaginal discharge, symptoms of a vaginal or pelvic infection, or unexplained heavy vaginal bleeding. These conditions may obscure the cervix or affect the interpretation of results. Rescheduling ensures that the screening is comfortable for the patient and clinically reliable.

How Should Patients Prepare for Their First Screening?

Preparation is simple but important. Patients should avoid inserting anything into the vagina for at least 24 to 48 hours before the test and should arrive relaxed and informed. Wearing comfortable clothing, emptying the bladder beforehand, and understanding that the procedure is brief and routine can significantly reduce anxiety and improve the experience.

What Activities or Products Should Patients Avoid 24–48 Hours Before the Test? Why Is It Important to Avoid Them?

Patients should avoid sexual intercourse, vaginal douching, vaginal creams, pessaries, lubricants and tampons for 24 to 48 hours before the test. These activities and
products can wash away or alter cervical cells, potentially leading to inaccurate results or the need for repeat testing.

What Clothing Choices Make the Screening More Comfortable or Convenient?

Loose, two-piece outfits such as skirts, dresses or trousers with a separate top are ideal. This allows the patient to undress only from the waist down, maintaining comfort, dignity and ease during the examination.

Should Patients Bring Previous Test Results or a List of Symptoms?

Yes. Bringing previous Pap smear or HPV test results, biopsy reports or a written list of symptoms can help the doctor identify trends or changes over time. This allows for better risk assessment and more personalised care.

Are There Personal Health Details Patients Should Be Ready to Discuss?

Patients should be ready to discuss their menstrual cycle, sexual history, contraception use, pregnancy history, HPV vaccination status, prior abnormal results, and any current symptoms such as bleeding, pain or discharge. These details help guide clinical decision-making and ensure appropriate follow-up.

What Sensations Should Patients Expect During the Screening?

Most patients feel mild pressure or brief discomfort when the speculum is inserted, but the procedure should not be painful. The actual sample collection usually takes less than a minute, and any discomfort resolves quickly after the speculum is removed.

How Long Does a Typical Appointment Take, from Start to Finish?

A typical cervical screening appointment takes about 10 to 15 minutes in total, including explanation, examination and documentation. The actual sample collection takes only a few minutes. 

What Can Patients Do to Ease Anxiety or Discomfort Before Arriving?

Patients can practise slow breathing, arrive early to avoid rushing, empty their bladder before the exam and ask questions beforehand. Understanding the purpose and process of the screening significantly reduces fear and improves comfort.

What Medical Conditions, Symptoms or Situations Should Patients Mention Before the Test?

Patients should inform the doctor if they are pregnant, recently gave birth, had a miscarriage, are experiencing abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or have a history of immune disorders or abnormal cervical results. This ensures safe and appropriate care.

How does sharing accurate health information help the doctor perform a better screening?

Accurate information allows the doctor to choose the correct type of test, interpret results correctly, and determine whether additional tests or follow-up are required. It also helps avoid unnecessary anxiety or delayed diagnosis.

What are common misconceptions patients have before screenings?

Common misconceptions include believing that cervical screening is painful, unnecessary without symptoms or only needed for sexually active women. In reality, cervical screening is preventive, quick and essential even when no symptoms are present.

What Would You Say to Gently Encourage People Not to Delay Their Appointment?

Cervical screening saves lives by detecting early changes before cancer develops. A few minutes today can prevent serious illness in the future. Delaying screening increases risk, while early detection offers reassurance and effective treatment when needed.

This article first appeared in The Sun, 19 Jan 2026

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19 January 2026

•

8 minute read

Guide to Cervical Screening

By Dr. Nurliyana Binti Abdul Razak

Dr. Nurliyana Binti Abdul Razak

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