[ser-vik-ul kan-suh] Cervical cancer is a cancer found in the entrance of the womb. Cancer is caused by the body's cells becoming abnormal and start reproducing in an uncontrollable way. These cells can then invade and destroy healthy tissue.

[helth bord] Health services in Scotland are delivered through 14 regional health boards. They are responsible for providing and managing a whole range of NHS services in an area including hospitals and general practices.

[ab-nor-mul sels] Abnormal cells are the basic building blocks of the tissue in your body that have changed or been damaged.

[ey-sel-yuh-ler per-tuhs-is vak-seen] Whooping cough vaccine containing only parts of pertussis bacterial cells which can produce immunity in the person receiving the vaccine.

[a-luh-jee] An abnormal reaction of the body which most commonly results in a runny nose, itchy eyes, wheezing, skin rash or diarrhea.

[an-uh-fer-lak-tik] [ree-ak-shun] An immediate and severe allergic reaction, which needs urgent medical attention.

[an-tee-bod-eez] Substances that fight off infection and disease.

[boo-stuh] Another dose of a vaccine given after the first dose to increase the effectiveness of the immunisation.

[ser-viks] The cervix is the entrance at the lower end of the womb that connects the womb with the vagina.

[ser-vik-ul skree-ning] During a cervical screening test (commonly known as a smear test), a sample of cells from a woman’s cervix is taken and examined for abnormalities, which can then be treated if necessary.