Cervical screening, Pap test

Cervical screening, Pap test:

Cervical screening (also called a Pap test, Pap smear, or HPV test) is a preventive health check to detect abnormal cell changes in the cervix that could lead to cervical cancer. Early detection allows for timely treatment, significantly reducing cancer risk.

1. Why is Cervical Screening Important?

Prevents cervical cancer: Identifies pre-cancerous changes.
Detects HPV (Human Papillomavirus): The main cause of cervical cancer.
Saves lives: Early detection means better treatment outcomes.

2. Who Should Get Screened?

Age to start: Usually 21–25 (varies by country).
Frequency:
- Every 3 years (Pap test alone).
- Every 5 years (if combined with HPV testing).
Who should stop? Often after age 65 if previous tests were normal.

Note: Guidelines differ by country—check local recommendations.

3. What Happens During the Test?

A speculum is inserted into the vagina to view the cervix.
A small brush/swab collects cells from the cervix.
The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
The test takes about 5 minutes and may feel slightly uncomfortable but shouldn’t be painful.

4. Possible Results

Result	Meaning	Next Steps
Normal	No abnormal cells	Continue regular screening
HPV Positive	High-risk HPV detected	May need more frequent tests or a colposcopy
Abnormal Cells (Dysplasia)	Mild (CIN1), Moderate (CIN2), or Severe (CIN3) changes	Further tests (colposcopy) or treatment
Cancer (Rare)	Cervical cancer detected	Immediate specialist referral

5. Does Cervical Screening Hurt?

Some women feel mild discomfort, but severe pain is uncommon.
Tips to reduce discomfort:
- Schedule when not menstruating.
- Relax muscles during the test.
- Ask for a smaller speculum if needed.

6. HPV Vaccination & Screening

The HPV vaccine (Gardasil, Cervarix) protects against cancer-causing HPV strains.
Even if vaccinated, screening is still needed because the vaccine doesn’t cover all HPV types.

7. When to See a Doctor ASAP

Bleeding after sex
Unusual vaginal discharge
Pelvic pain
Irregular bleeding

Final Thoughts

Cervical screening is a quick, life-saving test. If you’re due, book an appointment—early detection is key!