Discuss any timing or other concerns about having your smear test with your smear taker when you ring to make an appointment.

Before you have the test, your smear taker will usually talk you through the process.  They may also explain about the NCSP. 

Taking the smear

You will be asked to lie on your side or your back with your knees bent up. 
The lower part of your body will be covered with a sheet.  The smear taker gently opens the vagina with a plastic or metal speculum (see figure below) and carefully sweeps a sample of cells from the surface of the cervix with a thin broom or brush. It takes only a few minutes to take the smear.  Some women may find the test a little uncomfortable.
The test sample is either smeared onto a glass slide or placed in a liquid.  It is then sent to a laboratory approved by the NCSP.

When you have a cervical smear test

If you or someone in your family needs an interpreter or has another special need, talk to the person making your appointment about how this need can be met.
You may like to take a support person with you.  This could be a friend, family or whānau member, partner, nurse or interpreter.
If you want a sheet or blanket to cover yourself and it is not offered, ask for one.
Some women like to wear a skirt that they can keep on while having their smear.
Many women find it helpful to breathe deeply and to relax the vaginal muscles when the speculum is being inserted.
If you had a bad experience last time you had a smear, you can go to a different smear taker next time.  It helps if you tell your new smear taker about your past experience.