Comparing the information experience of women invited for cervical screening for the first time in 1994 with 2001.

We compared the information experience of women invited to attend cervical screening for the first time in 1994 and 2001 using postal questionnaires. Compared to 1994, women in 2001: found the invitation letter less easy to understand; were not aware of alternative venues for the test; and waited >4 weeks before receiving their results. Negative information experiences may influence attendance.