BACKGROUND: This article explores the negative attitudes some women have towards the cervical screening programme. These attitudes could ultimately prevent them from participating in the programme. The negative experiences of women who receive a positive result are also explored. CONCLUSION: Women's negative attitudes towards cervical screening can largely be countered by improving their understanding of the process and diagnosis of cervical cancer. Women who receive a positive smear should be offered support to reduce their anxiety.
BACKGROUND: This article explores the negative attitudes some women have towards the cervical screening programme. These attitudes could ultimately prevent them from participating in the programme. The negative experiences of women who receive a positive result are also explored. CONCLUSION:Women's negative attitudes towards cervical screening can largely be countered by improving their understanding of the process and diagnosis of cervical cancer. Women who receive a positive smear should be offered support to reduce their anxiety.
Authors: Sarah M Flanagan; Sue Wilson; David Luesley; Sarah L Damery; Sheila M Greenfield Journal: BMC Womens Health Date: 2011-01-20 Impact factor: 2.809