Access to cervical screening for women with learning disabilities

Evidence shows that the uptake of cervical screening is much lower in women with learning disabilities compared to other women. A literature review was conducted, including published and unpublished international empirical research, discussion articles and reports written in English from 1990 to October 2007, to identify what factors are preventing women with learning disabilities from accessing cervical screening, and what can be done to encourage uptake. From the literature reviewed, factors that prevent women with learning disabilities from accessing cervical screening fell into the following categories: administration errors; access to a GP; assumptions made by healthcare professionals about women with learning disabilities; perceived difficulties obtaining consent; attitudes of carers; the beliefs and experiences of women themselves; lack of accessible information; and physical difficulties. Findings on how cervical screening uptake can be improved in women with learning disabilities were categorized into: preparation with the women; working in partnership; and encouraging good practice. The literature review showed that there are many factors that may be preventing women with learning disabilities from accessing cervical screening, many of which can be overcome by healthcare professionals adhering to good practice guidelines, thus ensuring that women with learning disabilities have their right to access cervical screening services acknowledged.