Smear tests

Some lesbian and bi women believe that they don’t need to get smear tests (also known as pap tests and cervical screening). These tests are done to check for the presence of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which, recent estimates suggest, infects 75% of sexually active women. Unlike other STIs, however, it can also be passed by skin-to-skin contact and from sharing objects. The virus leads to 99% of  cervical cancer cases so it is very important to get tested.

Importantly, it can infect lesbian and bi women, even those who don’t sleep with men as it can be transmitted in other ways (as mentioned before).

Most women will get a letter at the age of 20 or 21 to get their first smear test. Thereafter, it is advised to get regularly checked (between every 3 and 5 years).

The test is done at a time when your period is not due and it is advised that in the 24 hours before the test, you don’t have sex. The test itself is not painful and shouldn’t be uncomfortable (if it is, you are more than welcome to ask the nurse or doctor to stop).

In the test, you will be asked to remove your underwear and to position yourself on a couch. The health professional will then open the walls of the vagina with a speculum and then, using a small spatula or brush, take a sample from the cervix. The health professional may also perform a pelvic examination to check the health of the womb as well.

Breast cancer awareness

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, effecting around 1 in 12 women in their lifetimes (with differing severities). Cancers often develop from a small mass and then develop into larger masses that can also spread (the process of spreading is called metastasis). Breast cancer can be prevented if caught early so it is important to regularly check your breasts for lumps. It is, of course, better for you to check your own breasts as you’ll know what is normal for you.
Things to look out for are:

• changes in texture and appearance
• changes in shape and size
• presence of lumps
• redness or rashes
• inversion of the nipple
• swelling in the armpits
• discharge from the nipple
• constant pain in the breasts

Breasts are often different from each other and will change during the month, so it is changes other than those expected that you are looking for. It is best not have a set routine when checking for changes as it will allow you to familiarise yourself with your breasts better. If you notice any of these changes, it is advised for you to contact your GP so that they will be able to reassure you or refer you to a specialist if needs be.

Contraception

Whether you never or almost never have sex with men, it is worth keeping in mind that contraception can still be beneficial to you as lesbian or bi women. Not only is it a protection from getting pregnant if you do have sex with men, but it is also a useful way to manage periods (bleeding patterns and pain) and hormonal disturbances.