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Cervical screening in pregnancy — DRCOG MCQ

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HardGynaecological OncologyCervical screening in pregnancyDRCOG

A woman at 10 weeks is due routine cervical screening. Her previous result was normal and she has no cervical symptoms. When should the sample be taken?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Twelve weeks after the pregnancy has ended

The best answer is “Twelve weeks after the pregnancy has ended”. Routine screening due during pregnancy is usually deferred until 12 weeks after the pregnancy ends because pregnancy-related cervical changes can make interpretation more difficult. Previous abnormal results or cervical symptoms require an individual diagnostic or colposcopy plan and are not managed by routine deferral.

Reference: NHS Cervical Screening Programme: good practice for sample takers: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nhs-cervical-screening-programme-good-practice-guidance-for-sample-takers/nhs-cervical-screening-programme-good-practice-guidance-for-sample-takers