"Cervical screening appointment"

I had a cervical screening at Chiltern House Medical Centre. I think it's important for me to leave feedback about my experience because almost one third of women do not take up the offer of cervical screening. And if they have experiences like mine, some women may not want to return.

The staff member I saw did not show the respect nor provide the dignity one would expect as a patient. When I was undressing and removing my trousers and underwear, they did not step away, but remained at the end of the patient bed. They were preparing the medical equipment. But could see me undress. I have never experienced this in my history of cervical screenings.

They should give the patient respect and dignity and allow them to undress and dress in private. During the screening itself the staff member at no point explained anything that they were doing. At every screening I have been to previously, the staff explained what they are doing, step by step. They explained nothing. Knowing what a medical professional is doing helps you to prepare mentally and physically and makes you feel more comfortable.

Overall, I was dissatisfied with my experience. I did not feel respected, I felt I was denied dignity and I was not treated as a person going through a generally unpleasant experience. I understand that compassion fatigue happens and maybe they were experiencing this, but perhaps they need reminding that they are dealing with real people, with real feelings.

They might do cervical screenings every day, but for patients these experiences are daunting. How the NHS staff treat you can make a world of difference.