Cervical screening: Doctor shares 11 tips to ease your fear of the smear

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Cervical screening tests are offered to women between the ages of 25 and 64 as a way to prevent cervical cancer. However, while it's a vital procedure, it can be a daunting one so we've compiled a few tips to help.

To start, the test checks for unhealthy changes to cells lining the cervix and for the presence of a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).Treatment is more likely to be successful when cervical cancer is spotted at an early stage, but some women find the screening a daunting experience.

However, any women put off smear tests due to feelings of embarrassment and concerns about being hurt.This Morning’s Dr Philippa Kaye has revealed the top tips for a more comfortable screening experience.

For all the latest showbiz, royal, lifestyle and TV news, sign up to our daily newsletter here. Schedule the appointment around your period The best time to have your smear test is when you're not bleeding.