2. The doctor/nurse will ask you to lie down on a couch

3. They will then gently insert a small instrument, called a speculum, into your vagina to hold it open

4. They will then wipe a small brush over the cervix to pick up some cells

5. These cells are then sent away to be examined under a microscope

6. The test should not hurt but may be uncomfortable. If you are tense, try to relax and take deep breaths

7. Your results should be posted to you 6 weeks after your test