Cervical Smear ?

[angelina]

Today I have received a letter from my GP surgery to make appointment for

a smear test. Must say I was quite shocked as I didn't think I would need to

have any more after a total abdominal hysterectomy. Has anyone else had

a smear after OC.

[Hidden]

Hi Angie,

This is a mistake.. you don't need a smear test now..I think your GP practice should update their files (a bit worrying that they haven't) I had a letter for one after my operation but I don't think mine was with the GP.... just give them a ring love x G x

[Hidden]

They go on taking tests if you've had a subtotal hysterectomy, and any part of the cervix remains. I think it unlikely; but also, when your hysterectomy has been due to cancer, they can continue to test the top of the vagina.

Do check with your GP.

Isadora

[Hidden]

I was told by my surgeon that the cervix was completely removed (leaving a "vaginal cuff") and I would not need to have any more smear tests. This is the norm with a TAH (total abdominal hysterectomy). I too kept getting letters telling me to go for a smear test until I cleared this up with them.

[angelina]

Hi Ladies,

Thanks for your help. Think I will check with my oncologist as i'm due to see her

in a few weeks time.I know this sounds silly but after all I have been through - -

the thoughts of a smear test fills me with dread. Silly me !!!!

Love to all

Angie xx

[ChrisH]

I had a letter telling me I was due a smear too. It turns out in my area the letters do not come from the GPs themselves, but are from some automated system which is not linked to our records. I have simply asked for them to remove me from the program, after double checking with my onc. I didn't think I had a cervix any more..... I did rather feel getting that letter was adding insult to injury, fortunately I was able to see the funny side!

Love

Chris

[angelina in reply to ChrisH]

Hi Chris, Thanks for your reply I will definately check with my onc and hopefully

get this sorted out.

Angie x

[moominkat]

Hi Angelina, yes I had the letter too, earlier this year. Like you a bit shocked to get it but I just rang my GP's surgery and said 'Are you sure I need one, can you check?' - just in case they did need to see me and so forth. The nurse I spoke to couldn't tell from my notes what exactly had been removed (!!) - she kept asking me! All I could say was 'I think it all came out but I was in shock and tbh didn't take in all the specifics at the time...' So she got my GP to investigate (she had to phone the consultant!) and then she called me back to say no more smears required. It did seem a bit insensitive but I assume they aren't always on top of things. Hope that helps. xxxx

[SandyL]

Hi Angelina,

I live in canada, so things may be done differently here. I was diagnosed over 13 years ago and through that time had 3 different female Doctors. Each Doctor said the same thing to me, that there is some controversy (disagreement) over this issue and so each of them have erred to the side of 'better safe than sorry'. The pap smear isn't a big deal (after what we've already been through), so to me, it isn't a problem. I had one recently and it was clear! Sandy.