Rachelle Cox, a lesbian from East London, was told by her GP she didn’t need a smear test because of her sexuality—a claim she slammed as “ridiculous, untrue, and harmful.” In a now-viral Instagram video, Cox explained that when she went to book her smear test, she was informed it wasn’t necessary because she’s a lesbian.
“That’s just wrong,” she said. “If I didn’t know better, this could have put my health at risk.”
Smear tests, which screen for HPV (human papillomavirus) and abnormal cervical cells, are critical for anyone with a cervix, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. HPV is spread through any kind of sexual activity, including between women, and abnormal cells can lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. According to the NHS, cervical screening currently prevents 70% of cervical cancer deaths.
Cox managed to secure an appointment but stressed the need for healthcare workers to be properly trained. “It makes me worry about how many queer people have been turned away or discouraged from getting smear tests when they really should,” she added. Cox encouraged others to advocate for themselves in medical settings, saying: “Always speak up for your health. If you’re nervous, take a friend or loved one with you.”
The NHS website confirms that anyone with a cervix aged 25-64 should get screened, no matter their sexuality. However, research from Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust shows that 40.5% of LGB women have been wrongly told they don’t need a test because of their sexual orientation.
Stewart O’Callaghan, founder of LGBTQ+ cancer charity OUTpatients, highlighted that trans and non-binary people also face barriers in accessing smear tests but urged everyone eligible to get screened for their health.
Cox’s experience exposes the harmful misinformation still circulating in healthcare and the urgent need for sensitivity training to ensure no one’s health is put at risk.