Hello there and thanks for posting

It is good to hear you went for your first cervical screening test yesterday and it wasn't too unpleasant an experience for you.

Try not to worry too much about the blood you saw on the swab as this often happens and doesn't mean anything sinister is going on. The swab is used to collect the sample of cells from the cervix is soft but can still irritate the cervix causing it to bleed. Other causes such as infection an ectropion or polyps can also cause spotting or bleeding that you can read more about here.

The Nurse taking the sample is usually able to take a good look at the cervix and its health and if something were to look unusual they will let the patient know. In these cases they normally will refer patients to the colposcopy clinic for further assessment. So I would assume if she didn't mention anything all looked fine.

Remember the screening programme is all about preventing cancer by picking up abnormality at an early stage where it can be monitored or treated until everything returns to normal. Attending for screenings as called and any necessary follow up  appointments will reduce the risk of cervical cancer so you did the right thing yesterday and hopefully everything will be okay.

Please get back if needed or you are welcome to call our nurse helpline on 0808 800 4040, Monday-Friday 9-5.

All the best

Naomi