After tights, it’s bright pants to promote smear testing
UNIQUELY decorated pants are being showcased in full knickerbocker glory until 20 June.
Steered by local charity Bright Tights, the We Are All Smear Ready campaign hopes to raise awareness of the importance of smear tests, while addressing barriers of body image and embarrassment.
Free cervical screening tests have been available for all since January 2019.
Nobody should delay the potentially life-saving check up, said Public Health practitioner Emily Davies.
Those aged 25 to 49 are invited to screenings automatically every three years, with those aged 50 to 65 every five years, and appointments can be arranged.
‘It’s free and there is a choice of provider – either your GP, Choices or the Orchard Centre,’ Mrs Davies said.
‘All have qualified health care providers who you can talk to beforehand about any anxieties. If you need to bring a friend or family member you can choose to, and you can ask for a female nurse or doctor.
‘Please don’t put off your screening. We know people live busy lives, but it takes five minutes, so we encourage all people and their employers to give the time.’
Cervical screening is the best protection against cervical cancer, as well as the HPV vaccine, through early detection of abnormalities or signs allowing early treatment.
‘What amazes me as a non-professional is that women fought for ages for these appointments to be free,’ Bright Tights chairwoman Pat Child said. ‘It used to cost at least £50 and is so worth getting it done.’
Mrs Child said the mini pants aim to encourage people to get checked, encourage conversation and save lives.
Each are crafted differently to mirror that every woman is different and that nurses have seen every variety.
‘I think you can see our personalities in them.’
Islanders can decorate their own to display, or to take a photo of the mini pants to share online.
The Princess Elizabeth Hospital, Guille-Alles Library, Health Connections, notice boards, toilet doors and social media will showcase the pants.
Guernsey Swim All Seasons members are swimming in decorated pants on 19 June to increase awareness.
‘Remember you don’t have to be beach-ready to be smear-ready,’ Mrs Child said.
. Please contact Public Health on 227311 for more information on cervical screenings or HPV vaccines.
