Facilitating screening

Research shows that women are more likely to have a Pap smear if it is suggested by their health practitioner. You can improve screening practices by simply asking your patient if she is up to date with having a Pap smear.

Barriers to having a Pap smear can include:

• lack of information and understanding about the test
• feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable about having a Pap smear
• anxiety due to a negative past experience
• busy lifestyle – no time
• uncertainty about timing of their next Pap smear
• lack of transport or access to Pap smear services
• cultural and language barriers
• cost of the consultation fee
• lack of access to a female GP or nurse
• fear that results might be abnormal

Ways you can help:

• explain the purpose of the test and how it is performed
• provide longer appointments to allow more time for questions
• acknowledge that some women feel embarrassed and let them know that it is normal
• let women know that they can ask to stop the Pap smear if they feel uncomfortable
• tell women they can bring a friend to the appointment if they choose
• send reminder letters when the woman's next Pap smear is due
• acknowledge specific cultural beliefs
• be aware of language barriers and if required ask if she would like an interpreter
• inform women about how and when they should receive their results
• explain the purpose of the Cervical Cytology Registry (CCR) and check that they are happy to have their results forwarded to the CCR

More information:

» HPV testing
» Cervical Cytology Registry (CCR)
» Become a Pap smear provider
» Resources
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