We prefer to do these tests within the practice and either the Practice Nurse, or the Nurse Practitioner can carry them out. Please inform the receptionist when making your appointment, that you will be having a smear test. We follow the local policy of screening every three years until the age of 40, then every five years, until the age of 65, (except) when you have had a hysterectomy or when there is an abnormality requiring more frequent smears. You will receive an invitation by computer typed letter.