What is a Pap Smear?

What is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear, is a procedure used to detect abnormal changes or cells in the cervix. It is renowned for its ability to identify potential causes before symptoms of cervical cancer appear. 

However, it is not a specific test for cancer but can help detect abnormal cells early, which might prevent the development of cancer if these cells are treated early.

Pre-Test Preparations for a Pap Smear

To ensure the effectiveness of the Pap test, consider the following precautions.

Avoid the following for two days before the test:

• Sexual intercourse.
• Vaginal douches.
• Any vaginal medications, creams, or spermicidal gels.
• Do not schedule the test during your menstrual period.

How is a Pap Smear Performed?

The test is quick, typically lasting a few minutes, and involves the following steps:

• You will be asked to lie on your back with your knees bent.
• The doctor will gently insert a speculum into the vagina. The speculum helps to widen the vaginal walls to view the cervix clearly.
• Using a soft brush or spatula, the doctor will collect cells from the cervix.
• The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Results from a Pap Smear

Results from a test are usually interpreted as follows:

• Normal Results: If the cells are normal, the result is negative. In this case, you typically do not need any further treatment or tests.
• Abnormal Results: If abnormal cells are detected, the result is positive. However, a positive result does not necessarily mean cervical cancer. 

It indicates that further investigation is needed to understand the type of abnormal cells found.

Accuracy of Results from a test

Pap Smears are highly accurate. Regular screenings can reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality by at least 80%. Therefore, it is crucial to have the test as recommended.

Is the Pap Smear Painful?

Typically, the test is not painful, though you may experience some pressure when the speculum is inserted. 

Relaxation during the procedure helps the speculum enter more comfortably. 

Some women may experience light bleeding afterward, which usually subsides quickly. 

If bleeding occurs, avoid sexual intercourse for 24 hours post-test.

When Should You Have a Pap Smear?

Recommendations for Pap smears are based on age:

• Under 21: No test is needed.
• Ages 21-29: Every 3 years if results are normal.
• Ages 30-65: Every 5 years with HPV testing or every 3 years without HPV testing.
• Over 65: May not need further tests if previous results have been normal.

Does a pap smear Detect Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

No, a Pap smear does not detect STIs. However, blood tests can identify some STIs, or a sample from the cervix may be tested for infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea.

Read More: Bleeding After Menopause: Is It Normal?

References:

1. About cervical screening. (n.d.). https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cervical-cancer/getting-diagnosed/screening/about
2. Whitbourne, K. (2024, March 29). PAP smear: What to expect. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/women/