Advice and resources Cervical screening advice for people with a learning disability

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Community Learning Disability Service for adults

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Sexual Health Service

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How can we help

Community Learning Disability Service for adults

Learn more

Sexual Health Service

Learn more

Overview

Cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer.

People aged 25 to 64 who are registered as female with a GP get an invitation for cervical screening through the NHS App or by text or letter every five years.

People with a learning disability can face unique challenges when it comes to accessing and understanding cervical screening.

An easy read guide developed by the NHS that explains about having cervical screening is available on the GOV.UK website, and the below video was created with people with a learning disability and helps to explain more about cervical screening and what to expect.

Tips for a cervical screening appointment

Ask questions about what will happen

You can have an appointment before your screening to talk to a nurse or doctor about what to expect.

Get more time

Ask for a double appointment to have more time with the nurse or doctor

You can ask for a woman

You can ask for a female nurse or doctor if that would help you feel more comfortable.

Ask to bring someone you trust

A friend, family member, or carer can come along with you for support.

Practice the body position at home

This will help you get used to the position. Lie on your back with legs bent and knees apart.

Listen to music or a podcast

Listening to something during your screening might help you relax.

Practice saying the words you need

You might want to practice saying the words you will before your appointment. Examples include:

  • cervix
  • speculum
  • vagina

You are in control

You can ask the doctor or nurse to stop at any time for any reason.

It is okay if you can’t go through with the screening the first time.

Wear comfortable clothes

Wearing a long dress or skirt (if you wear them), or trousers or shorts that are easy to take off and put on, can help you feel more comfortable.

Resources

The Eve Appeal

The gynaecological cancers charity, The Eve Appeal, has developed easy read information about cervical screening and related topics.

GOV.UK

Guidance for supporting people with learning disabilities to access cervical screening.