Pap Smear

Pap Smear


Pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer. It tests for the presence of pre-cancerous or cancerous cells on your cervix.

All women, especially those who are married or have been sexually active, are advised to get regular pap smears, at least once every 3 years starting at the age of 21, following 2 consecutive years of normal pap smears 1 year apart.

Some women may be at increased risk for cancer or infection and need more frequent tests, e.g. if they are:

  • HIV-positive
  • having a weakened immune system from chemotherapy or organ transplant

Based on the latest guidelines, You DO NOT need a PAP smear IF you are:

  1. Aged 65 years and above who have had 3 previous normal Pap smears in the last 10 years, OR
  2. Aged 65 years and above who have had 2 previous normal HPV DNA tests in the last 10 years, OR
  3. Aged 65 years and above who have had 2 previous normal co-tested Pap smears and HPV DNA tests in a row in the last 10 years.
Note: The most recent testing should have been done in the last 3 years for a Pap smear or the last 5 years for an HPV DNA test. Additionally, if you are 65 years and above and have not had any HPV testing before, it is encouraged to get at least one-time testing rather than no testing at all.

How is it done?

During the procedure, you’ll lie on your back on an examination table with your legs spread.

Your doctor will insert a device called a speculum into your vagina to keep the vaginal walls open and provides access to the cervix.

Your doctor will scrape a small sample of cells from your cervix. There are a few ways your doctor can take this sample:

  • Spatula only.
  • Spatula and a brush.
  • Cytobrush, which is a combination spatula and brush.

Most women feel a slight push and irritation during the brief scraping.

The sample of cells from your cervix will be preserved and sent to a lab to be tested for the presence of abnormal cells.

After the test, you might feel mild discomfort from the scraping or a bit of cramping. You could also experience very light vaginal bleeding immediately following the test. Tell your doctor if discomfort or bleeding continues after the day of the test.

 

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