Smear test / PAP smear with HPV testing

Smear Test (Pap Smears) and HPV Testing: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Cervical screening can be a bit scary — especially if it’s your first time or it’s been a while. But this simple test could be life saving, detecting early changes that may prevent cervical cancer before it starts.

Smear tests and HPV testing are key to assessing cervical cancer risk, identifying and managing potential issues early on.

At Happiher, we offer private smear tests in London with comfort, clarity and compassion. Whether you’re due for your routine test or want faster access to screening, we’re here to make the process easy, respectful and informative.

Cervical Screening Programme

The cervical screening programme is the backbone of the fight against cervical cancer, a disease that affects thousands of women worldwide. Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix. This programme includes a series of important screening tests, including the HPV test and the Pap test, to detect these abnormal cell changes early. By participating in the cervical screening programme women can reduce their risk of cervical cancer by a huge amount. Early detection through these tests means any abnormal cell changes are identified and treated quickly, a vital line of defence against cervical cancer.

Benefits of Cervical Screening

Cervical screening has many benefits, first and foremost early detection of abnormal cervical cells which is key to preventing cervical cancer. Regular screening tests can detect high risk HPV types, so treatment can be done quickly and cervical cancer development is reduced. Cervical screening also gives women peace of mind knowing they are taking care of their health. The programme is designed to be convenient and accessible, tests take only a few minutes to do. By being informed about cervical health and screening tests women can take control of their health and reduce their risk of cervical cancer by a lot.

What is a Smear Test?

A smear test — also known as a Pap smear or cervical screening — checks the cells in your cervix (the opening to your womb). It’s not a test for cancer, but a screening test to detect abnormal cells or high risk human papillomavirus (HPV) early, before they cause problems, so it’s a vital part of cervical health monitoring.In the UK, cervical screening now primarily involves HPV testing — and only checks for cell changes if the virus is present.

What is HPV?

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a very common virus, passed on through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most people who are sexually active will come into contact with HPV at some point, and in most cases the body clears it naturally without causing harm.

However, persistent infection with high risk types of HPV can sometimes cause abnormal cell changes that may develop into cervical cancer if left untreated. Knowing if an HPV infection is active or dormant is key as it affects screening recommendations and follow up care for cervical cancer risk.

That’s why HPV testing is now the first step in cervical screening.

Who Should Have a Smear Test?

In the UK, smear tests are offered routinely to women and people with a cervix:

• Every 3 years between the ages of 25 and 49

• Every 5 years between the ages of 50 and 64

Trans men assigned female at birth, who are registered as male with their GP, may not receive screening invitations but are still entitled to cervical screening if they have a cervix.

However, you may want a private smear test if:

• You’re experiencing unusual bleeding or discharge

• You’ve missed or delayed your NHS screening

• You’d like additional reassurance between routine tests

• You have a history of abnormal smears or HPV

• You’ve recently become sexually active with a new partner

At Happiher, we offer private smear testing in London without long wait times or busy clinic settings — in a calm and caring environment.

What Happens During a Smear Test?

The test takes only a few minutes and is done by a trained healthcare professional.

You’ll be asked to lie back and relax on the exam table with your knees bent and heels in stirrups.

A small speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to view the cervix.

A soft brush collects a small sample of cells from the cervix.

The sample is sent to the lab for HPV testing and if needed cytology (cell analysis).

Most women find the test slightly uncomfortable but not painful — and we do everything we can to help you feel at ease.

When Will I Get My Results?

At Happiher, you’ll get your results quickly and confidentially, usually within a few working days.

Your result will usually fall into one of the following categories:### What Do My Results Mean?

• HPV not detected – You’ll be invited back in 3–5 years (or as recommended)

• HPV positive, no abnormal cells – You’ll be monitored more closely

• HPV positive with abnormal cells – You may be referred for a colposcopy to examine the cervix in more detail

Normal Pap test results indicate no abnormal cervical cells, which is a negative test result.

We explain every result clearly and support you through any next steps.

What If My Smear Is Abnormal?

Most abnormal results do not mean cancer. In fact, they usually show very early cell changes that often return to normal on their own.

If further treatment is needed, options may include:

• Monitoring with repeat smear tests or colposcopy

• Removal of abnormal cells in a simple outpatient procedure

Further testing, such as a cervical biopsy, may be necessary to diagnose conditions accurately. This procedure not only involves the removal of cervical cells for microscopic examination but may also serve as a treatment for abnormal tissue. The importance of further testing lies in its role in diagnosing conditions, including cancer, and ensuring appropriate follow up care.

At Happiher, Dr Kaur offers specialist colposcopy referrals and ongoing cervical health support — so you’re never left feeling uncertain or alone.

Cervical Biopsy and Diagnosis

A cervical biopsy is a procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from the cervix to be examined under a microscope for abnormal cell changes. This procedure is usually recommended following an abnormal Pap test result or a positive HPV test result. The biopsy helps in diagnosing cervical cancer or identifying precancerous cells. If abnormal cell changes are detected, further tests and procedures may be required to assess the extent of these changes and to formulate an appropriate treatment plan. It is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider after a cervical biopsy to discuss the results and any necessary next steps, ensuring that any abnormal cell changes are managed effectively.

Why Choose a Private Smear Test?

You may want a private smear test if:

• You want faster access than the NHS

• You prefer a female gynaecologist in a calm, private setting

• You’d like additional support or a second opinion

• You have symptoms or concerns outside of routine screening

In the UK, women and people with a cervix registered with a GP as female automatically receive invitations to screening at specific intervals based on their age. However, complexities can arise for trans men and non-binary people regarding their eligibility and registration.At Happiher, we’re here to support you with kindness, confidentiality and clinical expertise — making screening a more personal experience.

HPV Vaccination and Prevention

Cervical cancer is now largely preventable with:

• HPV vaccination (available for teens and privately for adults under 45)

• Regular smears and early detection

• HPV tests to identify high-risk HPV types and cervical cancer risk

• Smoking cessation to help your body clear HPV faster

If you’re unsure about your vaccination history or eligibility we can advise and offer private vaccination if appropriate.

Early Detection Matters

Early detection is key to prevention and treatment of cervical cancer. Screening tests play a vital role in detecting abnormal cell changes early allowing for timely intervention and reducing cervical cancer risk. If left untreated these abnormal cell changes can progress to cervical cancer which can be life threatening. By attending regular screening tests and follow up appointments with your healthcare provider you can ensure any abnormal cell changes are detected and treated early. Staying informed about cervical health and taking proactive measures such as getting vaccinated against HPV and having safe sex are also important steps in reducing cervical cancer risk.

Why Choose Happiher for Cervical Screening?

If you’re looking for private HPV screening in London, Happiher offers:

• Same week appointments for smears

• Expert gynaecological care from a female consultant

• Clear explanations and fast results

• A calm and respectful environment with no pressure or judgment

• Ongoing care for abnormal smears, HPV or colposcopy referrals

Our dedicated team will send out screening invitations and provide follow up care especially for individuals with complex needs such as transgender men and non-binary people.

Whether it’s your first smear or your tenth we’ll guide you through the process with care, clarity and reassurance.

Conclusion

A smear test only takes a few minutes but can protect your health for years to come. If you’re due for screening or just want peace of mind expert and compassionate care is available.

Understanding cervical cancer screening is important especially in recognising cervical cell changes and their implications for pregnant women.

At Happiher we make cervical screening easier — and help you feel in control of your health every step of the way.