Afraid to ask?

Do I still need a smear?

Q I am a bit surprised to have been called for a smear test as I had a hysterectomy last year. Do I need to go?

A

It depends on what sort of hysterectomy you had and why. Usually, the entire womb, including the cervix, is removed. But sometimes, a gynaecologist will perform a partial hysterectomy, where the cervix is left in place. In this case, you still need to have cervical screening. You would also need it if the hysterectomy was done for cervical cancer. While the cervix would have been removed, we do smears of the vault where it once was. If neither of these scenarios applies to you, speak to your doctor and check your notes are updated.