Smear test question

[Showmeheaven]

Anyone know if it is really necessary for me to keep having smear tests due to the fact I have only had one sexual partner in my lifetime (dh). DH has never been with anyone else either. Its a few years since I've had my last one and I cannot find a definative answer in Google.

The only reason I ask is that my Mother (and her generation) never had them, possibly because it wasn't necessary

Just wondering, anyone know ?

For info 70% of cervical cancers caused by HPV strains 16 and 18.(This is what teenagers are currently being vaccinated against and what the Boots Cervical cancer service vaccine covers) Other HPV strains account for other cervical cancers, genital warts and other "things". It is passed through skin to skin contact as has been mentioned. So there is a risk of contact if you or your partner have ever been intimate with anyone else not necess "full sex".

I'm Irish and I'm sure my mum had smear tests. Unfortunately she passed away due to another gynae cancer that could be HPV linked.

I'm passionate that people get regular smears. I've recently had to have severe abnormalities removed from my cervix cos it took ages to get a smear appointment. I was rushed into hospital two days ago due to a massive pv bleed following procedure and am on antibiotics and feel like poo!

If I'd gone for my smear I might not be having such a crappy time at moment.The abnormalities may not have been so deep ITKWIM. I'm still waiting to find out that I've not got a microinvasive cancer.

Have the smear test. Please. I tell you it's a lot less hassle!!!

Showmeheaven - I'm sorry my post upset you. It's just that smear testing is a sensitive issue for many people, and those of us who have had abnormal smears, despite total fidelity to one person, do feel a bit upset ourselves when the implication is still made that you or your partner have probably been promiscuous to be suffering from the problem you now have. I know this is not what you intended to imply, but references to "social cancers" and comments about older generations not having or needing smear tests strongly imply this sub-conscious belief. It is true that the more promiscuous (and unwashed and chain smoking) you are, the greater your risk of picking up a dangerous strain of HPV and not clearing it from your body, but cervical cancer is not the sole preserve of the great unwashed!

my mum has only ever had one partner, her husband, my dad! she doesn't smoke and nor does my dad. she enjoys a glass of wine. she had a smear 18 months ago and they found she had cancer. the battle has been won because of early detection. shes 64

def go for a smear

it takes a few mins and can save your life

i have had many abormal smears and had cells lasered off several times and doctors keep a close eye on me and i have a smear every 6mths, so 6 to the average 1 every 3 years

there was a case of a virgin getting cervical cancer in the news a while back so yes anyone could get it, tho some people are more at risk than others