Pap Smear

WHAT IS A PAP SMEAR TEST ?

It is a simple test during which cells are removed from the neck of the womb or cervix. These cells are examined under a microscope to check for changes or abnormalities which could lead to cancer.


HOW IS A PAP SMEAR DONE? DOES IT HURT?

Your doctor will use an instrument called speculum to help open your vagina and show the cervix so that a sample of cells can be collected with a small spatula or brush. The procedure may cause discomfort and sometimes pain but it should be minimal if you are not tensed.


WHY SHOULD WOMEN DO PAP SMEAR?

Pap Smear helps to detect cervical cancer, even long before it has developed. Cervical cancer can spread to other organ and cause death, but when found early in the precancerous stage, complete cure is the rule.


RISK FACTORS FOR CERVICAL CANCER

1. Multiple sexual partners
   
   
2. First sexual intercourse before age of 18
   
   
3. Genetial Warts (HPV) or other venereal disease
   
   
4. Sexual partner with genital Warts
   
   
5. Smoking
   
   
6. History of abnormal Pap Smear

HOW RELIABLE IS THE TEST ?

It is about 70% sensitive, which means it may miss abnormal cells 30% of the time. Therefore, regular Pap Smears are very important to allow more chances to detect abnormality. Even though not 100% sensitive, regular Pap Smear is still an effective screening test and had been proven to reduce cervical cancer death.


WHEN SHOULD WOMEN START DOING PAP SMEAR?

The rest should be done following the onset of sexual activity continuing for the rest of a woman's life. Usually, Pap Smear are done once a year until three consecutive normal results are obtained. After this, the frequency of the test depends on recommendation from your doctor.


WHAT IS THE PREPARATION BEFORE GOING FOR PAP SMEAR ?

Avoid using vaginal medications, creams or douches for at least 72 hours, and abstain from sex for 24 to 48 hours before the examination. Schedule the test at about 2 weeks after the first day of the last menstrual period.

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