Can a smear test be done before it's 'due' date?

[hippipotamiHasLostThreePounds]

Had my reminder in the post yesterday. It states the test is due on or after the 16th March.
Now, because it should be done roughly halfway through your cycle, I can either have it done around teh 9th of March (thus a week before the on or after date), or on the 6th April, which is 3 weeks later.

Which should I do?

I seem completely incapable of making a decision on this

I have visions of lying on the bed, legs akimbo, and the nurse screeching: "your test is not due yet, come back next week" or words to that effect.

So, how strict are the words on or after? And do they mean absolutely not before?

chill, hippo!
Really, as long as you remember to get it done, then surely there is no panic? Why don't you ring them and let them decide - availability of appointments and all that stuff

Thanks.

It just has me in a spin... How odd is that.
Mind you I am dreading having it done....

Will ring them tomorrow and see what they say.

hallo
Anytime just before or after it's due should be fine. Avoiding your period of course. The surgery get a list of whose being called each month so they know how many are likely to want appointments.
From the lab's pov (where I work) usually, a couple of months either way (if you're on normal recall not early recall) doesn't matter. If you don't go after 2 months IIRC you'll get a reminder letter.

Thanks Bella

I will go a week before in that case, instead of 3 weeks after the due date. (get it over and done with)