Non-speculum sampling for cervical screening

We were saddened to read about Ms Wishart’s experiences with screening and how she has felt let down by the NHS Cervical Screening Programme.¹ Several of us have worked in or with the Cervical Screening Programme for many years and acknowledge that there are issues around some women finding speculum examinations difficult and painful. The professional bodies, charities, and indeed the screening programme have striven to establish and maintain high standards. But clearly these have not always been achieved. We agree that training and communication are key, including as Ms Wishart states, a personalised and empathetic approach.

As researchers we are hopeful that collecting samples without need for a speculum will help make cervical screening easier for individuals who have found it to be difficult or traumatic. We thank Ms Wishart for sharing her experiences and helping to raise awareness about this important issue.

Competing interests

Anita W Lim declares non-financial support from Copan Italia and Roche outside of the submitted work and receiving payment from Roche for giving a talk outside of the submitted work.