Editor,—A well organised cervical screening programme has considerable benefits; however, one negative aspect is anxiety associated with abnormal results. The NHSCSP guidelines state that an explanatory leaflet should be given to women with abnormal cytology and those being referred for colposcopy, with a verbal explanation wherever possible.¹ We assessed if there is any additional benefit from a verbal explanation, following written information, when an abnormal smear result is given, in understanding and future attendance for colposcopy and cytology follow up.

Between April and December 1998 we recruited 89 women with abnormal cytology. All women attending for results are given the NHSCSP leaflet “What your abnormal result means” if their smear shows borderline …