All About Pap Smear Test

Ever heard of a Pap smear?

Sit up, let us give you a quick look!

What is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear is a simple test to detect cervical cancer in women. It is commonly called the Papanicolaou test in medicine. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common leading cancer in women. The majority of women may not have symptoms of cervical cancer and not know till it is too late. A Pap smear tool is effective for early diagnosis and treatment. A Pap smear detects cervical cancer, precancerous cells, and a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) called Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is known to cause cell changes that eventually result in cervical cancer.

In addition, Pap smears are known to discover conditions that are not related to cancer, such as inflammation of the pelvic area and infections or other health issues. 

How is Pap Smear Done?

A pap smear is part of a pelvic exam recommended by your doctor. It may be accompanied by a breast exam as well. It is a quick and easy procedure done at your doctor’s clinic during regular check-ups.

During a pap smear, a virginal speculum is inserted into your virginal walls by your doctor. This enables your doctor to see the cervix clearly and extract samples of cells using a cone-shaped brush and a tiny plastic spatula. The sample is sent to the lab for examination by a cytologist. The test is not painful. Some discomfort may occur during the test. If you breathe slowly and relax, you would feel nothing or just a slight pressure. But if you feel any pain during the test, you should tell your doctor.

However, pap smears are not to be done during your menstruation period. So, your doctor will ask you some questions and inform you about the best time for the procedure. Doctors recommend women have a pap smear every three years starting at age 21. Your doctor can recommend Pap smear be done along with other tests for HPV or HPV test instead of the Pap smear.

Ensure you discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of Pap smears to enable you to make the right decision.

Why should You get a Pap Smear?

A pap smear is the best method to detect cervical cancer in women. In addition, it’s an early step to detect precancerous cells. After a Pap smear, if the results indicate some cells are precancerous, your doctor will carry out more tests and begin treatment against the probable development of cervical cancer.

Early detection of cervical cancer gives you and your doctor the best chance to treat it. Regular cervical cancer screening should be done regardless of your sexual history. Pap smears are recommended once every three years, but some women need to be screened more often. The best thing you can do to protect yourself against cervical cancer is to get regular pap smears.