Clinical Research

The University of Nottingham Health Service is an NIHR CRN East Midlands Research Leadership site with over 15 years experience in delivering NHS research, contributing to its future viability and benefiting our patients.

NOW RECRUITING:

Recruiting now for the PCV15-PCV20 Vaccine Study.

The University of Nottingham Health Service would like to invite your child to take part in a study to help guide future changes to the UK infant immunisations. We want to enroll healthy children, who have not yet received their 2-month routine vaccinations.

Participants will have five visits at The University of Nottingham Health Service, Cripps Health Centre, and a phone call. Vaccinations, including the standard of care vaccinations, will be given at four of the visits and blood tests to measure the immune response to the vaccines will be taken at two of the visits. Taking part in this study is voluntary and participants can withdraw at any time.

If you would like any further information, please download the Patient Invitation Letter visit:

https://www.ovg.ox.ac.uk/studies/pcv/unhs or

contact us by telephone on 0115 822 7979 or

e-mail nnicb-nn.research@nhs.net

Eclipse Migraine trial

The Eclipse trial is investigating how effective Atogepant (study drug) is in the acute treatment of Migraine attacks. The trial is being run across 8 Centres in the UK including Cripps health centre. To find out more about the study follow this link The ECLIPSE Study (eclipsemigrainestudy.com)

New to Research? Find out more about what Clinical Research is

Starting Out Guide - Why and how to get involved in research | NIHR

What is Health Research? Online Course - FutureLearn

Be Part of Research Podcasts - Be Part of Research (nihr.ac.uk)

Travel Vaccinations

Please note some travel vaccinations require a non-refundable deposit.

We have developed a comprehensive travel service for both registered & non-registered patients of the practice.

For more information on vaccination prices visit our travel clinic website www.nottinghamtravelclinic.co.uk

For more travel information visit https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/

Travel Health Advice Leaflet

It is advisable to make an appointment to discuss you travel plans as far in advance as possible. Some vaccination schedules can take several weeks to complete and we suggest booking in a minimum of six weeks before you go. Ask the reception for a travel appointment and they will book a travel consultation with one of our practice nurses.

Consultation

During this initial consultation the nurse will:

discuss your travel plans
if necessary commence any vaccination courses

It is therefore very important that if possible you bring any vaccination records you possess to this consultation. If you are unsure of this you may need to ask your parents or check the records from your previous doctor.

The consultations are about far more than just what vaccinations you require, and will also cover other key areas that need to be considered to keep you healthy. You will also have the chance to buy key medical supplies such as anti malarial pills, mosquito nets and travel health packs.

There is further information about countries and vaccinations required on the Fit for travel website

Some travel vaccines are ordered on a private prescription and these incur a charge over and above the normal prescription charge. This is because not all travel vaccinations are included in the services provided by the NHS.

Travelling in Europe

If you are travelling to Europe the EU has published useful information for travellers on the European website.

Clinics & Services

Asthma

Modern treatment is effective at treating and preventing the symptoms of asthma.

Having an annual review with the nurse or doctor is the best way to ensure that you are getting the best and most up-to-date treatment.

The aim of treatment is to prevent symptoms so that you hardly ever need to use ‘reliever’ medication. This can be by avoiding triggers that you know make it worse, not smoking, and if necessary by taking preventative medication which is safe and effective.

Relievers – these inhalers (usually blue) directly relax airway muscle, opening up airways and making it easier to breathe.

Preventers – these medicines act to reduce the inflammation and mucous in the airways, and help to reduce airway muscle contraction. These are usually inhalers too, although sometimes various tablets are also used.

Flu Vaccination – each year a vaccine is developed to protect you from the current most virulent strains of influenza virus. It is available from GP surgeries in the autumn and is well worth having if you have asthma that requires regular prevention treatment, (or certain other chronic conditions, or are over 65).

Where to find out more

If you think you may have asthma and want to find out more then you can make an appointment to see one of the nurses or doctors at the Health Centre.

Child Health

We offer full child health surveillance including regular developmental checks and immunisations for the Under 5s.

Click here for the NHS recommended immunisation schedule

Child health reviews are carried out by the Doctors and by our Health visitor.

Health Reviews

Newborn Review - This is normally done in hospital unless you have had a normal delivery and have been discharged after only 6 hours. This would rarely be the case for first time mothers. If your new baby requires this health check please contact the Health Centre as soon as possible after you return home

Birth Review - For the first ten days after your baby is born both you and your baby will be under the care of a midwife who will visit you at home as often as you both think is necessary. She will be able to deal with any concerns you may have. She will make sure the baby is feeding well and will also monitor his or her weight.

10-14 day Review - The health visitor takes over the care of the baby from the midwife at around 10 days and will continue to monitor the baby’s health including weight. She will also examine the baby’s hips to check they are stable.

Counselling

We work closely with the University of Nottingham Counselling Service and students can refer themselves directly or may be directed between services. Often students see their GP and the Counselling Service at the same time.

The Counselling Service offers counselling to people directly connected with the University, ie staff and students. This means some patients of Cripps Health Centre are not eligible to use this service. NHS talking therapy services are available for free to all patients.

The Counselling Service website gives details of the services provided and how to access them.

Dermatology

Dermatology is the medical speciality that deals with diseases of the skin and their management. Skin disease is a very common complaint in our practice and is one of the most frequent reasons for consultation at the Health Centre.

Problems with skin and hair are also included in this speciality. There are many other types of problem that occur that we will also be able to help you with.

All the doctors are skilled in the diagnosis and management of skin problems. In addition, Dr Manktelow has a special interest in this subject and holds the Cardiff Diploma in Practical Dermatology.

Lesion Removal

Occasionally some skin lesions can be uncomfortable, or may repeatedly catch on clothing. At Cripps we are often able to remove these for you. Please make an appointment with one of the Doctors if you wish to discuss whether Minor Surgery is appropriate for you.

Warts and Verucas

Warts and verrucas can often be treated by topical medication that can be bought from a pharmacy.

Examples of common skin conditions that we see include:

acne
eczema and dermatitis
psoriasis
pigmented skin lesions (e.g. moles)

Diabetes

The aim of treatment is to control blood glucose and minimise the risk of complications. Having regular reviews at least annually with the doctor or nurse, of different aspects of health that can be affected by diabetes is essential to ensure that treatment is effective and adequate to minimise the risk of complications.

Type I are usually cared for both by GP and as an outpatient at the local hospital. In Nottingham the opportunity for students to transfer case from their home town to Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC) is available, where there is a very comprehensive service available, with a very experienced and supportive team of doctors and nurses.

Drop-in clinic

As an outpatient registered at QMC there is a Drop in Clinic available at:

Diabetes Unit
South Block
C Floor

Open Monday – Friday 2 – 3:30 pm.

The team can be contacted Monday – Friday 9 am – 5 pm on 0115 97 09215 for advice on any aspects of your diabetes care.

More information about diabetes can be found on the NHS Choices website.

Antenatal Care

Our midwives have special training in the care of pregnant women and their newborn babies. They will provide antenatal care throughout pregnancy until around 10 days after the birth of your baby. Clinics are held each week at the Health Centre on Wednesdays.

If you think you may be pregnant you can self refer to the midwife team by calling 0115 8833100. Your appointment will take around an hour and will involve a detailed health review and an explanation of your antenatal care including what future appointments will be required.

For problem-free pregnancies most of your antenatal care will be provided at the Health Centre by the midwife and your GP.

Click here for more information about planning your pregnancy

Minor Surgery

As a team we perform a number of minor surgical procedures, examples of which are below. You may find it useful to make your first consultation with a doctor who performs a particular procedure ─ this can be discussed with the receptionist when booking.

We believe that performing these procedures in general practice gives our patients faster access to a more convenient service. However, there are limitations to procedures we are able/allowed to perform.

Examples

Removal of moles by excision
Removal of other skin lesions by cautery or shave excision
Skin biopsies
Implanon insertion (long term contraception)
Insertion of contraceptive coils

Minor procedures for purely cosmetic reasons are not funded by the NHS and therefore we do not offer them.

Before minor surgery leaflet

After minor surgery leaflet

Physiotherapy

You can self refer to community Physiotherapy via the Nottingham Health and Care Point, 0300 131 0300 or online via http://accesstoservices.citycare.org.uk/

The University Physio holds regular clinics at the Sports Centre which can be booked via reception. Sports centre members can access a wider range of appointments for this service by booking directly with the sports centre reception.

You can also visit their site for useful resources and information

www.citycarephysio.org.uk

Are You A Carer?

Website Carers Document

Whatever your sexuality or gender identity you can get friendly, confidential and accurate advice and support when visiting us. Our staff are here to help, not to make judgements about you.

Contraception

All methods of contraception are available at Cripps Health Centre and are provided free of charge by the NHS. Please book an appointment with the Practice Nurse.

Choosing the best method for you

To help you decide which method would suit you best and to compare different methods please use the Contraception Choices website or Best Contraception For Me – Brook

Emergency Contraception

Emergency Contraception can be used up to 5 days after unprotected sex. However, the earlier you use it the better chance there is that it will be effective so you should seek advice as quickly as possible. Emergency contraception - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

The most effective form of emergency contraception is the non-hormonal coil or Cu-IUD which can be fitted here at Cripps Health Centre or by the Nottingham Sexual Health Service at Victoria Health Centre

There are also two types of emergency contraceptive pill which are available free of charge from Cripps Health Centre or the Nottingham Sexual Health Service but they are also available without a prescription from a pharmacy (although you may have to pay for this).

Please contact us on 0115 822 7979 and ask to speak to the Duty Nurse for further information regarding emergency contraception. If we are closed please call the Out of Hours service on 111.

You should also consider having tests for sexually transmitted infections (STI’s), please scroll down for further information regarding STI’s.

Implants and Coils

If you are interested in an implant (Nexplanon) or a coil which could be called a non-hormonal copper coil Cu-IUD or a hormonal LNG-IUD Mirena or Kyleena, please let reception know at the time of booking your appointment as you may need an appointment to discuss this first. The information on this page gives impartial advice and may help you decide what's best for you Contraception Choice Videos | Contraception Choices

Consent Form Implant Insertion

Advice Before A Contraceptive Implant

Advice After Contraceptive Implant Fitted

Consent Form Coil Insertion

Advice Before A Contraception Coil Is Fitted

Advice After Coil Fitted

Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) Info

Coil Fitting and Pain

Contraceptive Pill, Patch, Ring & Injection

Please book an appointment with the Practice Nurse for any of the above on 0115 822 7979

Information on different methods: Contraceptive methods | Contraception Choices

How to take the Combined Contraceptive Pill this leaflet provides information on different ways you can take your Pill.

If you are late taking, or have missed a Pill, you can find out what to do by using this resource: Forgot Your Pill? Use Our Missed Pill Calculator | The Lowdown

Information about Depo Provera and Sayana Press injections: How and when to have medroxyprogesterone contraceptive injections - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Free Condoms

Using a condom may help prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). Condoms are available free of charge to young people aged between 13-24 years living in Nottingham City via the C-Card scheme.

Students – If you don’t have any symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection but would still like to have free sexual health screening, please book an appointment with a Health Care Assistant (HCA) at Cripps Health Centre Tel: 0115 822 7979. If you would just like to register for the C-Card scheme you can apply here: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/currentstudents/healthyu/sexrelationships.aspx

Non-students – if you are aged under 25 you can book an appointment with a Health Care Assistant (HCA) at Cripps Health Centre to have STI screening. If you are aged 25 or over and would like STI screening and/or to register for a C-card contact Nottingham Sexual Health Service https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/sexual-health-services Tel: 0115 9627 627.

Termination of Pregnancy

If you are concerned about pregnancy please contact us on 0115 822 7979. If you know you are pregnant and are unsure of what to do the following information may be helpful: I’m Pregnant: Options For An Unplanned Or Unwanted Pregnancy (brook.org.uk)

If you decide that you don’t want to continue with the pregnancy the following information may answer some of your questions regarding abortion: Abortion: What is Abortion And How Safe Is It? – Brook

You can self-refer to BPAS for advice and to organise an abortion. Tel: 03457 30 40 30 www.bpas.org or book a GP appointment.

Planning a Pregnancy

Before you stop using contraception please read the advice provided by the Tommy’s midwives at Planning a pregnancy | Tommy's (tommys.org)

Contraception following pregnancy

Please discuss contraception with your midwife, Nurse or GP as many forms of contraception can be started immediately after a termination or delivery and do not affect breastfeeding.

Menopause

It is important to speak to your GP or Practice Nurse before stopping contraception.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/

British Menopause Society https://thebms.org.uk/

Rock My Menopause - Menopause Information

Sexually transmitted Infections (STI’s) are very common and you may not have any symptoms. It is a good idea to use condoms to protect yourself from infections and have screening at the start of a new relationship. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

STI screening (if you don’t have any symptoms) is available to people aged under 25 at Cripps Health Centre Tel: 0115 822 7979. Please ask Reception for a 'Clinic One' appointment. Routine testing includes a blood test for HIV and syphilis and a vaginal swab (women) or urine sample (men) for chlamydia and gonorrhoea. You may be asked personal questions but we ask the same of everyone to assess risk and what type of tests you may need, so don’t take it personally as it will help to identify what you need.

If you are aged over 16 you can order a free postal STI screening kit from www.sh.uk

Tests include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis.

If you have symptoms of an STI please contact Nottingham Sexual Health Service https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/sexual-health-services Tel: 0115 9627 627.

If you are paying for or being paid for sex then you may be at increased risk of STI’s. Please access support and advice here at Cripps Health Centre or Nottingham Sexual Health Service https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/sexual-health-services Tel: 0115 9627 627

Information about STI’s can be found by scrolling to the bottom of this page and also here: https://www.bashh.org/guidelines https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sexually-transmitted-infections-stis/

HIV, Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) & Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

If you are concerned about HIV please make a GP appointment or contact Nottingham Sexual Health Service. Tel: 0115 9627 627 https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/sexual-health-services

PrEP is available at https://www.iwantprepnow.co.uk/

More info about HIV & AIDS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hiv-and-aids/ https://www.tht.org.uk/

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are available for Human Papilloma Virus (HP) if you are aged under 25 and did not receive the vaccine at school. Please discuss with the Practice Nurse about your eligibility for free vaccinations.

Cervical Screening – Smear test

You will receive a letter inviting you for your first smear test shortly before your 25^th birthday. Please contact us for an appointment with the Practice Nurse.

Information about the screening service and what to expect at your smear appointment can be found here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/

Information about HPV and cervical cancer can be found here: https://www.jostrust.org.uk/

There is more information on the Cervical Screening page of this website, including guidance for trans and non-binary people.

Gender

Please make an appointment with a GP if you wish to discuss any gender-related issues.

Information about Nottingham based services and support groups:

https://www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk/nottingham-centre-for-transgender-health

https://www.tranzwiki.net/

Information regarding NHS screening programmes for trans people can be found here:

Specialist Sexual Health Counselling

The clinic is run from the Chandos clinic at City Hospital. Chandos Clinic (sexual difficulties clinic) | NUH

They see patients with sexual difficulty related to:-

Sexual Desire/Arousal
Erections
Orgasm
Ejaculation: Rapid/Delayed
Sexual Pain: Vaginismus, Genital pain
Sexual Difficulties Related to Disability/ill health
Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

They are not able to see patients with the following (see useful links below):

Illegal Sexual Behaviour
Mental Health illness that would preclude an individual from engaging with the Service and would be more appropriately managed in a general mental health setting
Individuals requiring Trauma Therapy

To access the Chandos clinic you will need to be referred by a health professional, normally your GP.

Sexual Assault

The Topaz Centre SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre) offers free support and practical help

to anyone in Nottinghamshire who has experienced sexual violence and/or sexual abuse.

The service is completely confidential and you do not have to give any personal information in order to get help.

If you would like to speak to someone, please call freephone 0800 085 9993 or visit https://www.topazcentre.org/# or Nottinghamshire Sexual Violence Support Services | Notts SVS Services

Women's Health

The NHS have an information page containing advice on lots of women's health topics including periods, contraception, pregnancy and menopause Women's health - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Non-NHS Services

As long as you fit the criteria for NHS care, most services will be free at the point of delivery. The common exception is prescription charges.

NHS charges

However, NHS patients occasionally need care that is outside of what the NHS covers. This can include forms and medicals where somebody else pays, eg:

armed-forces medical assessments
mortgage/life insurance medicals

The patient may also need to pay for other services such as:

fitness to fly certificates
private sicknotes for work
medical assessment for working abroad (camp America and similar schemes)

The charges for such services are based on the time taken to complete the examination necessary (if required at all), a review of your notes current and past and administration time in preparing and filing reports.

The commonest complaint is that an individual perceives the form as a quick sign-it and leave, as there isn’t much detail on the form. Often though a doctor is signing to say that they are happy with their knowledge of a patient, that they will be safe in a certain scenario. This can only be assessed by:

being familiar with the whole patient history (requires reviewing of all old notes)
and in some cases may include physically assessing the patient (level of detailed determined by form or by the intended activity)

Forms

There is a file at reception, in which we keep copies of the common forms that students require completing. These have each been assessed and the file tells the receptionist how long to book and what to charge. These fees and times are not negotiable so please do not ask. We would ask that you check with the desk before seeing the doctor as this often wastes an appointment and requires you return on another day.

Do not leave forms till the last minute as we may not be able to complete your form in time. We are not compelled to complete any non-NHS work but do so for the convenience of our practice but never to the detriment of our NHS duties, which always come first.

CONTRACEPTION AND SEXUAL HEALTH

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION

Disclaimer: The information contained in this page is intended for use by medical professionals only. Information for patients can be found under the ‘Services’ tab on the home page. If you are in any doubt or require further advice please contact us on 0115 846 8888.

BASHH GUIDELINES

STI clinical guidance and patient info leaflets: https://www.bashh.org/guidelines

Links to each info leaflet also available on Patient Information page in this section of UNHS website

BNF

Combined pill preparations: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/treatment-summary/contraceptives-hormonal.html

BPAS

Patients can self-refer for an abortion. Tel: 03457 304030 www.bpas.org

C-CARD

Free condoms for Nottingham City residents aged 13-24. http://www.ccardnottingham.com/

Students register for C-card at Student Union Advice Centre, C floor, Portland Building, Tel: 0115 846 8730

Non-students – book an HCA appointment here at Cripps Health Centre or contact Nottingham Sexual Health Service https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/sexual-health-services Tel: 0115 9627 627

CONTRACEPTION CHOICES

Evidence based contraception information website: https://www.contraceptionchoices.org/

FPA LEAFLETS

Go to Patient Information page or select from: https://www.fpa.org.uk/professionals/resources/leaflet-and-booklet-downloads

FSRH

https://www.fsrh.org/home/

UKMEC Summary Sheet https://www.fsrh.org/standards-and-guidance/documents/ukmec-2016-summary-sheets/

UKMEC Full Guidance http://ukmec.pagelizard.com/2016

Clinical Guidance (method specific) https://www.fsrh.org/standards-and-guidance/current-clinical-guidance/

Combined Hormonal Contraception – missed pill/patch/ring guidance

https://www.fsrh.org/documents/interim-fsrh-guidance-on-incorrect-use-of-combined-hormonal/

Diagnosis of Migraine With or Without Aura:

http://ukmec.pagelizard.com/2016#sectionc/diagnosis_of_migraine_with_or_without_aura

Drug Interactions

https://www.fsrh.org/standards-and-guidance/documents/ceu-clinical-guidance-drug-interactions-with-hormonal/

Emergency Contraception - decision making algorithm on pages 13 & 14 of download

https://www.fsrh.org/standards-and-guidance/documents/ceu-clinical-guidance-emergency-contraception-march-2017/

Late Depo Guidance page 21 of download

https://www.fsrh.org/standards-and-guidance/documents/cec-ceu-guidance-injectables-dec-2014/

Switching & Starting https://www.fsrh.org/standards-and-guidance/documents/fsrh-ceu-switching-document-feb-2019/

GENDER

Nottingham based services and support groups:

https://www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk/nottingham-centre-for-transgender-health

https://www.tranzwiki.net/

Information regarding NHS screening programmes for trans people: file:///C:/Users/emis2000/Downloads/Transgender_cross_programme_screening_leaflet%20PHE%20leaflet.pdf

HIV

BASHH guidance https://www.bashhguidelines.org/current-guidelines/hiv/

NICE guidance https://cks.nice.org.uk/hiv-infection-and-aids#!management

PrEP is available at https://www.iwantprepnow.co.uk/

Nottingham Sexual Health Service. Tel: 0115 9627 627 https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/sexual-health-services

Terence Higgins Trust https://www.tht.org.uk/

HPV

NHS vaccination schedule for girls and boys https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/hpv-human-papillomavirus-vaccine/

Jo’s Trust - info about HPV and cervical cancer https://www.jostrust.org.uk/

MENOPAUSE

NICE guidance https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23

HRT Guidance https://thebms.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/HRT-Guide-160516.pdf

British Menopause Society https://thebms.org.uk/

NOTTINGHAM SEXUAL HEALTH SERVICES

Tel: 0115 9627 627 https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/sexual-health-services

PREGNANCY PLANNING

Pre-conception advice https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/planning-pregnancy

PSYCHOSEXUAL Specialist Sexual Health Counselling

This service is available for both male and female clients (16 and over) living in Nottingham City who meet the following criteria:

Engaging in risky sexual behaviour.
Engaging in Chemsex
Have a diagnosis (either recent or historic) of an STI that is creating emotional concern.
Have difficulties with sexuality or gender identity
Have difficulty adhering to medication for HIV.

Clients are offered an initial clinical assessment to ascertain suitability and then, if appropriate, clients can be seen for up to 8 sessions. The Sexual Health Services counselling service is available at a selection of venues depending on individual need. People can be seen at either:

CHANDOS CLINIC, CITY HOSPITAL

VICTORIA HEALTH CENTRE, GLASSHOUSE STREET

GU MEDICINE BUILDING, CITY HOSPITAL

Clients can self-refer or referrals are accepted from other agencies. Contact the team to (self) refer or more info: Email: SHS.Counselling@nuh.nhs.uk or Tel: 01159 627 627

SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre) The Topaz Centre

Tel: 0800 085 9993

Secure Email: notts.sarc@nhs.net https://www.topazcentre.org/

Sex Workers

It is estimated that 5% of students are involved in sex work and could be at increased risk of STI’s or sexual assault. http://www.thestudentsexworkproject.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/TSSWP-Research-Summary-English.pdf

STI screening

Asymptomatic screening is available to people aged under 25 at Cripps Health Centre includes a bloods for HIV and syphilis and a vaginal swab (women) or urine sample (men) for chlamydia & gonorrhoea.

Self-testing kits for Chlamydia are available to those aged under 25 located outside the toilets in the main Reception area of Cripps Health Centre. Results are provided via text message.

Over 25’s should contact Nottingham Sexual Health Service https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/sexual-health-services Tel: 0115 9627 627 to arrange screening.

FSRH covid advice for professionals:

https://www.fsrh.org/fsrh-and-covid-19-resources-and-information-for-srh/

Cervical Screening (Smear test)

Cervical Screening, or a Smear Test, is a free health test available on the NHS as part of the National Cervical Screening Programme. It helps prevent cervical cancer by checking for a virus called high-risk HPV and cervical cell changes. It is not a test for cancer.

It is your choice whether to go for cervical screening. Cervical screening aims to identify whether you are at higher risk of developing cervical

cell changes or cervical cancer. This means you can get any care or treatment you need early.

You should be invited for cervical screening if you have a cervix. Women are usually born with a cervix, and Trans men, non-binary and intersex people may also have one.

What it involves

The appointment lasts approximately 20 minutes and will be carried out by one of our female nurses.

During the appointment a nurse will ask you to lie on the examination bed and they will insert a speculum into your vagina to help see your cervix more clearly.

The nurse will then use a small, soft brush to quickly take a sample of cells from your cervix. This may feel a bit strange, but should not be painful.

You will be sent a letter in the post with your results. Results should be expected to arrive between 2 – 6 weeks after your test.

You're still at risk of cervical cancer if:

you have had the HPV vaccine – it does not protect you from all types of HPV, so you're still at risk of cervical cancer,

you have only had 1 sexual partner – you can get HPV the first time you're sexually active,

you have had the same partner, or not had sex, for a long time – you can have HPV for a long time without knowing it,

you're a lesbian or bisexual – you're at risk if you have had any sexual contact,

you're a trans man with a cervix, Cervical screening for trans men and/or non-binary people | Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust (jostrust.org.uk) NHS population screening: information for trans and non-binary people - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

you have had a partial hysterectomy that did not remove all of your cervix,

If you've never had any kind of sexual contact with a man or woman, you may decide not to go for cervical screening when you are invited. But you can still have a test if you want one.

Deferring from the programme

If you do not wish to have a Smear test please telephone the practice on 0115 822 7979 and advise one of our team. We can temporarily remove you from the screening programme for 18 months. You will then routinely be called again when due.

Please note : you can still attend for a smear during the 18 month period if you change your mind. If you don't attend for a smear, but do not defer then you will continue to receive reminder letters, texts and phone calls.

If you're not sure whether to have cervical screening, talk to a nurse.

Resources in other languages

Videos in other languages: https://www.jostrust.org.uk/information/videos

Leaflet for women considering https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cervical-screening-description-in-brief

For more information please visit:

https://www.jostrust.org.uk/information/cervical-screening

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/

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