A Jersey mum who says smear test saved her life is urging others to get checked

  • Video report by ITV Channel's Alexandra Spiceley

A mother from Jersey who says a smear test saved her life is urging others to get screened for cervical cancer.

Donna Beadle put off having her smear test after she gave birth and assumed her results would be negative because she had no symptoms.

She waited until her fourth reminder before booking. However after her appointment she was told she had severe abnormal cells which could be cancerous.

Donna Beadle Credit: ITV Channel News
The change means a wait of five years rather than the current three for those aged between 25 and 50 providing no (HPV) cells are detected. Credit: ITV News

Women aged 25, are recommended to attend every three years.

From age 50, you are recommended to attend every five years.

Dr Fiona Nelson, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Credit: ITV Channel News

Donna was then invited back for a small procedure called a colposcopy.

Two weeks after seeing her consultant Donna was told that all of the cells had been removed Doctors said that if left undetected, they would have progressed to cancer within two years.

She is now joining the "Don't Put It Off" campaign, encouraging women to book their free test as soon as possible.

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?

  • Unusual bleeding (during or after sex; between periods; after menopause)

  • Pain and discomfort during sex

  • Unusual vaginal discharge

  • Pain in lower back or pelvis

Advanced cervical cancer can cause:

  • Pain in your lower back or pelvis

  • Severe pain in your side or back caused by your kidneys

  • Constipation

  • Peeing or pooing more often than normal

  • Incontinence

  • Blood in urine

  • Swelling of one or both legs

  • Severe vaginal bleeding

For more information on cervical cancer and how to book an appointment you can visit gov.je.