15/06/2026
💙 Cervical Screening Awareness Week – Don’t Ignore Your Invite 💙
At The Alice Medical Centre, we are encouraging everyone eligible to attend their cervical screening appointment. It might feel easy to put off, but it is one of the most important things you can do for your health.
📊 Why cervical screening matters
🌐Around 68.8% of eligible people in England attend screening – meaning many are still missing out.
🌐The NHS invites people aged 25–64 for regular screening to detect early changes before cancer develops.
🌐Cervical screening saves thousands of lives each year by preventing cancer before it even starts.
Screening looks for high-risk HPV (a common virus), which can cause changes in the cervix. Finding these early means they can be treated long before they become serious.
⚠️ Symptoms to be aware of
Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages, which is why screening is so important.
However, symptoms can include:
Unusual vaginal bleeding (after s*x, between periods, or after menopause)
Changes in vaginal discharge
Pain during s*x
Pain in your lower tummy, pelvis, or lower back
👉 If you notice anything unusual, please contact us — don’t wait for your next screening.
💡 Tips to feel more comfortable at your appointment
We understand that cervical screening can feel daunting or embarrassing — this is completely normal. Here are some ways to make it easier:
✅ Ask for a specific clinician (for example, someone you feel more comfortable with)
✅ Bring a friend or support person if that helps
✅ Book at a time when you feel relaxed and not rushed
✅ Wear loose, comfortable clothing
✅ Tell the nurse if you feel nervous – they will take things at your pace
✅ You are in control – you can ask to pause or stop at any time
The appointment is usually quick and should only take a few minutes, even though it might feel like a big step.
💙 A gentle reminder Even if you:
-feel well
-have had the HPV vaccine
-have only had one partner or haven’t been s*xually active recently
👉 You should still attend your screening when invited.
💙 Please don’t ignore your invite — it could save your life.
If you’ve received a letter, book your appointment today.
📞 Contact The Alice Medical Centre
