EN
e-Shop
Find A Doctor
Request an Appointment
International Patient
Emergency Contact
Hospitals
Specialties & Packages
Our Services
Health Hub
Patients & Visitors
Partner
A pap smear test, also called a pap test, is a screening procedure that is used to detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could lead to cervical cancer. During the procedure, a healthcare provider uses a small brush to collect cells from your cervix to detect precancerous and cancerous conditions of the cervix. This test is a simple and effective way to detect early signs of cervical cancer, and women aged 21 to 65 should undergo regular screening to catch any abnormalities early. In this article, let us learn more about the pap smear procedure, its purpose, and its significance.
The pap smear test is usually performed during a pelvic examination in a clinical setting and only takes a few minutes. Your doctor would walk you through the steps prior to the pap smear procedure.
To perform the test, the doctor will insert an instrument called the speculum into the vagina to widen it to view the cervix and upper portion of the vagina.
The lower part of the cervix is gently swabbed to collect cell samples using a spatula (Ayre's spatula), whereas a brush (cytobrush) is used to obtain cervix cells from the inner part of the cervix. The sample collected is placed in a liquid preservative and sent to the laboratory for examination to detect any abnormal or cancerous cells.
The pap smear test is one of the most effective ways to detect early signs and protect yourself from cervical cancer. The test can detect abnormal cells, like atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS), in the cervix before they become precancerous or cancerous cells.
In women above the age of 30, the sample collected from your cervix is examined for the presence of certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infection is a sexually transmitted infection that increases the risk of developing cervical cancer in many women.
It is advised that women aged make Pap smears (Pap tests) part of their regular annual health check-ups, beginning at age 21 or after 3 years of vaginal intercourse.
It should be done yearly till the age of 30, and women whose pap smear results show no abnormalities for 2 consecutive years can be tested every three years.
If you are over 30 and have never had an abnormal Pap smear, talk to your doctor about having one test combined with HPV testing every five years.
Women older than 65 may not be required to be screened anymore if the test results have been normal for several years, and after a total hysterectomy procedure where your cervix has been removed as part of the procedure.
Your doctor may suggest a Pap smear more frequently if you have the following risk factors:
The pap smear test itself is generally painless, but there may be some discomfort during the insertion of the speculum into the vagina.
It is recommended to schedule an appointment when you are not menstruating.
If you have a pap smear test scheduled within the next two days:
It is advisable to wear comfortable clothing and to bring something to listen to or read during the Pap smear procedure. Do not be afraid to communicate with your doctor if you are in pain or discomfort at any point during the procedure.
A pap smear test result may be normal, abnormal, or unclear.
Normal | Normal or negative results indicate no cell changes in your cervix. No further testing is required until your next scheduled test. |
|---|---|
Abnormal | HPV most likely causes abnormal changes. The changes may be mild (low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion) or severe (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion). Mild changes may return to normal on their own. The more severe changes are often called "precancers" as they are not cancerous yet but have the potential to develop into cancer over time. In uncommon circumstances, an abnormal Pap smear may indicate the presence of malignancy (cancer). There will be a need for additional examinations to confirm the diagnosis. The earlier cervical cancer is detected, the more treatable it is. |
Unclear | Rarely, the results may be unclear, and your doctor would advise you to repeat the test in 12 weeks. |
Are you concerned about the risk factors of cervical cancer?
Get in touch with us to book an appointment with a Gynaecological Oncology specialist at Gleneagles Hospitals today. Our expert team is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care, tailored to meet your unique needs. Take the first step towards your health and wellness today!
Wait a minute
