PAP SMEAR TEST

(Papanicolaou test)

The Pap smear test or simply PAP test is a screening test for cervical cancer. Cells scraped from the opening of the cervix are examined under a microscope. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens at the top of the vagina.

 

Q. How the Test is Performed?

A. You lie on a table and place your feet in stirrups or simply flexed at the knees. The speculum is inserted into the vagina to open it slightly, then the vagina and cervix is seen from inside. Cells are gently scraped from the cervix area and sent to lab for examination.

 

Q. How to Prepare yourself for the Test?

A. Do not do the following for 24 hours before the test:
  • Douche (douching should never be done)
  • Have intercourse
  • Use tampons
  • Avoid scheduling your Pap smear while you have your period (are menstruating). Blood may make the Pap smear results less accurate.
  • If you are having unexpected bleeding, do not cancel your exam.
  • Empty your bladder just before the test.

 

Q. How the Test will Feel?

A. Pap smear may cause some discomfort, similar to menstrual cramps. You may also feel some pressure during the exam. You may bleed a little bit after the test.

 

Q. Why the Test is Performed ?

A. The Pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer. Most cervical cancers can be detected early if a woman has routine Pap smears. Screening should start at age 21.

 

Q. When to repeat PAP smear test after the first test?

A. After the first PAP smear test it is recommended that the test should be repeated after:

  • You should have a Pap smear every 3 years to check for cervical cancer.
  • If you are over age 30 and you also have HPV testing done, and both the Pap smear and HPV test are normal, you can be tested every 5 years. (HPV is the human papillomavirus, the virus that causes genital warts and cervical cancer.)
  • Most women can stop having Pap smears after age 65 to 70 as long as they have had three negative tests within the past 10 years.
  • You may not need to have a Pap smear if you have had a total hysterectomy (uterus and cervix removed) and have not had an abnormal Pap smear, cervical cancer, or other pelvic cancer.

 

Q. What is Liquid based cytology?

A    Liquid based cytology—The sample of (epithelial) cells is taken from the Transitional Zone; the squamo-columnar junction of the cervix, between the ecto and endocervix. Liquid-based cytology uses an arrow-shaped brush, rather than the conventional spatula. The cells taken are suspended in a bottle of preservative for transport to the laboratory, where using Pap stains it is analysed.

 

Q. What does Normal Results mean?

A. Normal result means there are no abnormal cells present. The Pap smear test is not 100% accurate. Cervical cancer may be missed in a small number of cases, it is recommended to have colposcopy test with the PAP smear test. Most of the time, cervical cancer develops very slowly, and follow-up Pap smears should find any changes in time for treatment.

 

Q. What does Abnormal Results Mean?

A. Abnormal results are grouped as follows:

ASCUS or AGUS

  • This result means there are atypical cells, but it is uncertain or unclear what these changes mean
  • The changes may be due to HPV
  • They may also mean there are changes that may lead to cancer

LSIL (low-grade dysplasia) or HSIL (high-grade dysplasia):

  • This means changes that may lead to cancer are present
  • The risk of cervical cancer is greater with HSIL

Carcinoma in situ (CIS):

  • This result most often means the abnormal changes are likely to lead to cervical cancer if not treated

Atypical squamous cells (ASC):

  • Abnormal changes have been found and may be HSIL

Atypical glandular cells (AGC):

  • Cell changes that may lead to cancer are seen in the upper part of the cervical canal or inside the uterus

 

Q. What to do after abnormal PAP smear test report?

  • When a Pap smear shows abnormal changes, further testing or follow-up is needed.
  • The next step depends on the results of the Pap smear, your previous history of Pap smears, and risk factors you may have for cervical cancer.
  • For minor cell changes, it is recommended another Pap smear in 6 to 12 months.
  • Follow-up testing may include: Colposcopy-directed biopsy /An HPV test to check for the presence of the HPV virus types most likely to cause cancer

 

 

 

 

 

Shreeya Gynae Clinic

C - 63, Preet Vihar, Vikas Marg,

Delhi - 92, (Opp. pillar no. 78)

East Delhi (Laxmi Nagar District)

India

M: +91 8826629271

PH: + 91 11 22549342

Email: info@shreeyaclinic.com

 

 

 

 

 

The contents in this page are only for patient information and not for self treatment.

The patient is advised to take professional consultation.

 

 

Copyright : Shreeya Gynae Clinic, C - 63, Preet Vihar,  Vikas Marg, (Opp. Pillar no. 78), East Delhi, (Laxmi Nagar)

call Shreeya Gynae Clinic at  8826629271, for Consultation - Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Priyata Lal

 
OPD Timings: Tuesday to Saturday, 6:00 to 8:00 PM
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