Having regular cervical screening every three years is the best way of finding and treating abnormal cell changes and preventing cervical cancer from developing.
Who should have cervical screening?
All women aged 20 until they turn 70 who have ever been sexually active should have regular cervical screening. Women who have had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) need to check with their health provider whether they still need to be screened.
During September, Cervical Screening is free for Māori and Pacific women. Call Mahara Health to book an appointment
An important message
See your doctor if you have:
bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods
bleeding or spotting after sexual intercourse
bleeding or spotting after your menstrual periods have stopped (after menopause)
persistent pain in your pelvis
pain during sexual intercourse
unusual discharge from the vagina. The discharge might be smelly, have changed colour from white to pink, brown, or green, or be streaked with blood.
These symptoms can happen for several reasons and rarely mean that you have cervical cancer. However, they should be checked by your doctor.
For more information visit: https://www.timetoscreen.nz/cervical-screening/