National guidance states that individuals undergoing a hysterectomy for reasons other than cervical disease should be up to date and have a negative screening result within the screening interval. It is really important that you keep up to date with your smears before you have your hysterectomy. If you receive your reminder please go!

In most individuals having a hysterectomy, the cervix (neck of the womb) is removed as part of the operation.

This is examined by the pathologist (a specially trained doctor who examines cells under a microscope). If the cervix is normal and you have had regular cervical screening before your operation, then no further smears are required.

This information is passed to you and your GP by your gynaecologist and we will ensure you are withdrawn from the recall system for smears.

There are a few circumstances in which smears will still be required. You will be advised about this by your gynaecologist.

  • Sub-total hysterectomy: This is an operation where the body of the uterus is removed but the cervix is left. You will need to continue to have regular smears in the usual way until the age of 64.
  • If, for whatever reason, you are not up to date with your smears before your hysterectomy, one vault smear (taken from the top the vagina) is recommended six months post operatively. Your gynaecologist will speak with the colposcopy team to arrange this.
  • Where a hysterectomy is carried out for pre-malignant disease of the cervix (CIN) or CIN is found, vault smears (from the top of the vagina) will be required. The frequency of these smears will be discussed with you after your operation.

Vault smears will not be prompted by a letter from the cytology recall service in the usual way. It is the responsibility of the gynaecologist at NCIC to arrange the vault smears with the Colposcopy Team.

Should you have any questions please speak with your gynaecologist via their secretary or the colposcopy nurse on 01228 814220.

 

Confidentiality

‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.

For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302