The GPs are happy to discuss any particular women’s issues which are worrying you, including bladder control issues, prolapse symptoms, vaginal irritation or dryness and, of course, the menopause.  There are lots of lifestyle strategies and non-medical approaches which can improve many of these symptoms but it may be that medication also has a role.  Please also see the sexual health link for additional information on contraception and STIs.

Cervical screening (smear test)

Those who are registered as female at the practice and aged between 25-64 will be invited to make an appointment with the practice nurse by the Scottish Cervical Call Recall System. Cervical screening has evolved in recent years with the first step now being to identify whether Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is present.   This is because the majority of cervical cancers are linked to this infection.   Around 80% of us will have been exposed to HPV in the past but most of us clear it and so are at very low risk of the pre-cancerous changes to the cells of the cervix. 

• If HPV is not found - then a repeat screen is recommended in 5 years.
• If HPV is found - the cells are looked at carefully - if the cells are normal then the screening will be repeated in 1 year.
• If HPV is found and there are abnormalities in the cells then an appointment at the colonoscopy clinic may be arranged to take a closer look.

There is more information on both HPV and cervical screening on the Jostrust chartity website.  HPV vaccination is now offered to all S1 boys and girls in Scotland as evidence shows it will reduce their risk of HPV associated cancers. More information is available on NHS inform. 

Breast screening

Women aged 50-70 will be offered breast screening every 3 years, further information is available here. If you have any issues with an appointment the Lothian Breast Screening Centre details are Ardmillan House Tel 0131 537 7400.