PAP test (cervical smear screening test)
Regular screening for cervical cancer is important because in the early stages, the disease is not accompanied by pain or other symptoms that may be alarming. An effective method for detecting and preventing the development of oncological pathology is the PAP test. The procedure performed by qualified medical staff of the Dobrobut clinic is painless and takes only a few minutes.
What is a Pap test?
PAP test is a microscopic analysis of biomaterial to check for the presence of cervical malignancies and precancerous conditions. It allows for timely diagnosis and prevention of disease development.
The test involves taking a cytological smear from the vagina. The result shows the condition of the cells of the cervical mucosa, in particular, the presence or absence of pathological changes.
The PAP test by liquid cytology is considered one of the most informative methods for the study of oncological pathologies in the early stages. It is able to detect atypical cells with high sensitivity, which allows for reliable results. In addition, the price of the PAP test in our clinic is affordable.
Indications for the test
The PAP test is usually performed as part of regular screening for women aged 21 to 65 years, i.e. once every three years. The frequency of examination may vary depending on individual factors and doctor's recommendations.
More frequent scraping of the cervix and cervical canal may be necessary if
- the patient has a genetic predisposition;
- sexual activity began before the age of 16;
- there was a frequent change of partners without using condoms;
- a woman has had an abortion;
- there is a history of human papillomavirus or other sexually transmitted infections;
- there are other risk factors, such as smoking or immunodeficiency;
- you have previously had abnormal test results.
Who should not have a Pap test?
The PAP test is not used to diagnose cervical cancer if a woman is not yet sexually active. The procedure is also not recommended during the menstrual cycle. It is inappropriate to perform the test immediately after childbirth or treatment of inflammatory processes (if less than 3 months have passed). In addition, the anatomical features of the genitals may prevent the collection of biomaterial from the vagina. Testing should also not be done after surgical removal of the uterus.
Pap test: preparation for the test
It is recommended to take a cervical smear in the first days after the end of menstruation. During menopause, you can take the test on any day.
In order to obtain accurate results, you should refrain from
- sexual intercourse;
- use of vaginal gels, creams, suppositories
- douching;
- colposcopy or transvaginal ultrasound.
Performing a Pap test
The procedure of taking a smear from the cervix is painless. There may be a slight feeling of discomfort and dull pain in the lower abdomen, depending on the patient's individual sensitivity.
How the PAP test is performed:
- A woman undresses to the waist and lies down on a gynecological chair with her legs bent at the knees.
- The doctor inserts a vaginal mirror into the vagina.
- Using a special brush and gynecological spatula, a sample of cells is taken from the surface of the cervix. The biomaterial is analyzed in the laboratory for abnormalities or changes.
- The patient can get up and dress.
What if the PAP test shows abnormalities?
A normal Pap test is a negative result, which means that no abnormal cells were found in the cervix. If the result is positive, you need to consult a gynecologist who will prescribe additional tests and refer you to an oncologist to make the correct diagnosis.
Cervical cancer can be prevented through timely examination and regular screening. The PAP test helps to detect the disease even when there are no symptoms yet. After a quick and painless examination performed by experienced specialists of the Dobrobut clinic, you will receive reliable results.
