A Pap smear is a microscopic
examination of cells scraped from the opening of the cervix. The cervix is the
lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens at the top of the vagina.
It is a screening test for cervical cancer.
How the
Test is Performed
You will lie on a table. The doctor
or nurse will place an instrument (called a speculum) into the vagina and open
it slightly. This allows the doctor or nurse to better see inside the
vagina and cervix.
Cells are gently scraped from the
cervix area, and sent to a lab for examination.
How to
Prepare for the Test
Make sure your doctor or nurse knows
about all the medicines you are taking. Some birth control pills that contain
estrogen or progestin may interfere with test results.
Also tell your doctor or nurse if
you:
- Have had an abnormal Pap smear
- Might be pregnant
Avoid the following for 24 hours
before the test:
- Douching
- Having intercourse
- Taking a bath
- Using tampons
It is
ideal to have a Pap smear done 10-20 days after the start of your last period.
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.
Why the
Test is Performed
It has been seen
that women who do not participate in screening programs, and women whose
interval between smears is more than 3 years, are at highest risk for
developing cervical carcinoma (Figo Committee on Gynaecological Oncology,
2000).
In Malaysia, all
women who are, or who have been sexually active, between the ages of 20 and 65
years, are recommended to undergo Pap smear testing. If the first two consecutive Pap results are negative,
screening every three years is recommended. The Pap smear is a screening test
for cervical cancer.
Most cervical cancers can be detected early if
a woman has routine Pap smears.
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.
