CERVICAL SMEARS

Are you a patient of Stoke Medical Centre and due or overdue for your smear??

Cell changes to the cervix can lead to cervical cancer. These cell changes are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) virus, which most people come into contact with at some stage in their life. But the changes happen very slowly, so by having regular smears, there is a very high likelihood that abnormal cells will be found and treated long before they ever become cancer.  This is what makes cervical cancer one of the most preventable of all cancers.

Many women will get a reminder from their GP or smear taker when they are due for a smear. If you are due, get it done as soon as possible. Women who are not sure when their smear is due, or who want to find out more about cervical screening, can ring the free phone number – 0800 729 729 or go to the website www.cervicalscreening.govt.nz, you may even be eligible to receive a free cervical smear.  To check your eligibility for a free cervical smear, contact one of our nurses by phoning 5477 488.

Investing a small amount of time in having regular cervical smears could save your life – reducing your risk of developing cervical cancer by about 90 percent. Cervical smear tests every three years are recommended from the age of 20 to 70 for women who have ever been sexually active.

There are lots of things in life that you can’t control, but by having regular cervical smear tests you can greatly reduce your likelihood of developing cervical cancer. You’re worth it!

 Contraception

We offer confidential advice and information on:

  • The Combined Pill ('The Pill')

  • The Progesterone only Pill ('The Mini-pill')

  • The Intrauterine Device ('The Coil')

  • The Intrauterine System ('Mirena' - coil with progesterone)

  • Emergency Contraception

  • Jadelle - A reversible hormone releasing implant placed under the skin of your arm and lasting five years (Implanon is still available but is not subsidised)

We also supply condoms directly from the practice for free or on prescription where the only cost to you is a dispensing fee at your preferred pharmacy.