Women encouraged to act on any symptoms of Cervical Cancer and get a smear test if advised by their doctor

Derry City and Strabane District councillor Councillor Aisling Hutton (Sinn Féin) is encouraging women to act on any symptoms of Cervical Cancer and ensure they get a smear test if advised by their doctor.

Speaking  during Cervical Screening Awareness Week, Cllr Hutton who is the Chair of Council's Health Committee said: "This week is Cervical Screening  Awareness Week, a vital opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of noticing and acting on any symptoms of this disease.

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“I would urge everyone in Derry to be aware of the symptoms of cervical cancer and to act on any signs you may notice by consulting a medical professional as soon as possible.

“Symptoms can include pain in your pelvic area, pain during sexual intercourse and irregular bleeding.

“It is also very important to attend smear tests when invited to do so by your doctor," said Cllr Hutton.

She added: “It is also important to raise awareness about this disease as it is paramount that it is identified and treated as soon as possible, so please do not delay in seeking medical help.

“I also want to thank all the nurses, doctors, researchers and other staff working in this important area to treat and prevent Cervical Cancer.”

In the North of  Ireland, women get invited for a cervical smear every 3 years if they are aged 25 to 49. After that, they get an invite every 5 years until age 64.

If a woman is over 65 and have never had cervical screening, this can be requested, via a  GP or a clinic that provides cervical screening.