Missed Cervical Screening?You Can Still Book
Intimate HealthArticleAn old NHS England invitation does not mean you must wait for a new one.
If you were invited for cervical screening in England but missed the appointment or never booked it, you can still arrange it. NHS1 guidance says to contact your GP surgery or local sexual health clinic; you can book even if the invitation arrived weeks or months ago.1
You do not need a fresh invitation
The NHS1 says that after missing your last cervical screening, you do not need to wait for another invitation before booking.1
An unopened letter can become one more thing you keep moving around the house. You can start with a call without writing an explanation for the delay.
Ask the service about your arrangements
Try: “I was invited for cervical screening and did not book. Can you help me arrange it now?”
Confirm that the service offers screening and ask how to book. Tell them if you are pregnant or have had a procedure that could affect the screening arrangements. Have the team explain your own next step rather than choosing a waiting period yourself.1
Keep the booking details. Tell the service about examination worries when arranging the visit.
Down There, Decoded includes a Down-There Log and an appointment script. Use the script to organize the questions you want answered before the visit. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
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