Exploring the barriers to cervical screening and perspectives on new self-sampling methods amongst under-served...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Gynecological Health

Background:

• Cervical screening rates are declining in the UK, creating health inequities for underserved populations.
• Barriers to accessing routine cervical screening disproportionately affect certain groups.
• Self-sampling offers a potential alternative to overcome these access barriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand barriers to cervical screening for under-screened groups.
• To explore views on self-sampling (vaginal swabs, urine) as an alternative screening method.
• To assess how self-sampling might address existing screening barriers.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study using interviews and focus groups with 46 participants.
• Integrated theoretical frameworks: primary care access, intersectional, and feminist perspectives.
• Collaboration with VCSE sector to enhance reach to underserved communities.

Main Results:

• Persistent barriers to cervical screening identified, alongside examples of good practice.
• Participant experiences, positive and negative, often related to healthcare professionals and speculum use.
• Self-sampling methods (vaginal swab, urine) were positively received, offering choice, convenience, and empowerment by avoiding speculum use.

Conclusions:

• Barriers to cervical screening persist, but good practices can improve patient experience for underserved groups.
• Self-sampling, when introduced with adequate information and communication, can reduce barriers and potentially increase screening uptake.
• Careful implementation is crucial to realize the benefits of self-sampling and avoid undermining its potential.