Cervical screening can bring up uncertainty or discomfort particularly when healthcare doesn’t always feel inclusive or affirming.
This relaxed info session is an opportunity to learn about your options, ask questions and find out how to make cervical screening work for you and your body.

Catering will be provided by Thorne Harbour Health, so you can grab a bite to eat and settle in to the session.

Facilitated by Ada Castle (she/her) from Cancer Council, this session is for queer women and people with a cervix aged 25–74 who want to better understand cervical screening – whether you’re due for your next test, considering screening for the first time or simply curious about what’s involved.

What we’ll cover:

• HPV and cervical cancer: What human papillomavirus (HPV) is, how it relates to cervical cancer and how cervical cancer can be prevented.
• Your screening options: Learn about the Cervical Screening Test, including self-collection and what the different options involve.
• Making screening more comfortable: Practical tips for navigating discomfort, anxiety or other concerns around screening.
• Screening and testosterone: Information and considerations for people who currently use or have previously used testosterone.
• Communicating with healthcare practitioners: How to express your needs, preferences and boundaries when accessing cervical screening.
• Finding LGBTQIA+ affirming healthcare: Where to look for services and practitioners who can provide inclusive, respectful care.

Cervical screening is relevant regardless of your sexuality or gender identity. However accessing screening can come with additional barriers for queer people including misconceptions about who needs screening and concerns about comfort or being understood by a practitioner.

This session aims to provide clear and practical information in a welcoming environment where you can learn about your options without judgement. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, build your understanding and leave feeling better informed about what might work for you.

Come along, learn more and discover ways to make cervical screening more accessible and affirming for you.