Papsmear
The Pap smear (or Pap test) is a crucial screening tool for women's reproductive health, primarily focused on preventing cervical cancer.
Pap Smear (Papanicolaou Test)
- A Pap Smear (or Pap test) is a quick, painless screening procedure in which a healthcare provider collects cells from the cervix (the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina) to be examined under a microscope.
- Purpose: The primary goal is to screen for precancerous and cancerous cell changes on the cervix. By detecting these changes early, they can be treated before cancer develops.
- Procedure: During a pelvic exam, an instrument called a speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold the walls open. A small brush or spatula is then used to gently collect a sample of cells from the surface of the cervix and the cervical canal. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
- Co-Testing: The Pap smear is often performed alongside an HPV test (Human Papillomavirus test), which checks for the presence of high-risk strains of the HPV virus—the main cause of cervical cancer. This combination is called co-testing.
A Pap smear result can be classified as Normal/Negative (no abnormal cells found) or Abnormal/Positive (cell changes detected). The most common abnormal findings relate to the changes caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Common Conditions and Findings
Symptoms and Why Screening is Critical
Pap smear screening is critical and life-saving because precancerous cell changes usually cause NO symptoms. Symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge, and pelvic pain are associated with advanced cervical cancer, which screening aims to prevent.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider immediately, even if you are up-to-date on your Pap smears.