What it involves
Family planning and cervical screening services support reproductive health and the early identification of potential cervical health concerns.
Depending on your needs and the services available, an appointment may include:
- Discussion of contraception options and family planning goals
- Guidance on the benefits, suitability and possible side effects of contraceptive methods
- Contraception counselling and provision of available methods, where appropriate
- Pap smear screening to check for cervical cell changes
- Advice on follow-up testing or referral when indicated
Who it is for
- People seeking advice about contraception and family planning
- Patients wishing to discuss suitable contraceptive options
- Eligible patients due for cervical screening
- Patients who need guidance about reproductive health or follow-up after previous screening
Screening and contraceptive choices will depend on individual circumstances and clinical guidance.
What to expect
Your healthcare professional will discuss your medical history, reproductive health needs and any questions or concerns you may have.
For a Pap smear, the procedure and its purpose will be explained before the examination. Your consent will be obtained, and you can ask questions or discuss any concerns about comfort and privacy.
If a sample is collected, it will be sent for laboratory analysis where applicable. The clinic will explain how results and any necessary follow-up will be communicated.
Preparing for your visit
- Book an appointment and mention any specific concerns you would like to discuss.
- Bring your identification, relevant medical records and a list of current medicines, if available.
- If attending for cervical screening, tell the healthcare professional if you may be pregnant, have unusual bleeding or have symptoms that concern you.
- Follow any specific instructions provided by the clinic before your appointment.
Routine Pap smear screening may be easier to perform when you are not menstruating. Contact the clinic for advice if your period coincides with your appointment; do not cancel automatically.
Good to know
The appropriate contraceptive method and timing of cervical screening depend on your medical history, age, symptoms and individual circumstances.
A Pap smear is a screening test and does not diagnose every condition affecting the cervix or reproductive system. Symptoms may require additional examination or investigation, even if a previous screening result was normal.
Some services, contraceptive methods or follow-up investigations may require referral to another healthcare provider.
Fees and payment
Confirm the family planning consultation fee, Pap smear fee, laboratory charges, contraceptive product or procedure costs, accepted payment methods and medical aid arrangements.
Additional tests or contraceptive services may incur separate charges. Please confirm the expected cost before proceeding.
Doctors who offer this
This page is general information. The doctor will advise you based on an assessment of your health.