Private smear tests between routine NHS cervical screening appointments?

[Anonymouseky]

Several years ago, after having my eldest child, I had a smear that came back with abnormal cells/ high grade dyskaryosis. This resulted in a LLETZ procedure. I then had no more problems until my youngest child was born when I tested HPV positive again. They checked me 6 months later and all was ok. Since then I’ve been back on 3 yearly smears. The length of time between smears when I have had previous problems worries me, so I started to have a private smear at the half way point at 18 months. These smears checked for HPV and the presence of abnormal cells. However, I’ve just heard of a product which is a tampon that tests for the presence of HPV only (not the abnormal cells). I’m tempted to do this as it is considerably cheaper than the full private smear which has doubled in price since my last one. I’m interested to get opinions on whether anyone else is in a similar situation and does or doesn’t book in for private smears in between the NHS ones every 3 years. I was told the chances of something developing in 3 years was unlikely, but it seems like a long time to wait, but I can’t really afford hundreds for a private one. Advise or experiences appreciated.

I don't know about the tampon, but Superdrug UK do a home HPV test kit, swab on a stick you just insert and twirl round, no need to find your cervix. Tests just for HPV, around £50. If that helps?

Thank you, I will look into that. I’m just unsure whether this will be enough or if I should look at a full test.

An NHS smear would just test for HPV regardless of your past history and if negative your sample wouldn't be checked further. The home tests just check for HPV so if positive you could go to the GP?
I Believe some women like the fact the nurse does a visual inspection when she takes a smear, so possible problems could be flagged?

You could look at Daye testing too.