Pap smears
A Pap smear and the HPV test looks for abnormal cell changes in the cervix and HPV (Human Papillomavirus). Together these 2 tests aim to catch cervical cancer early or to treat any early pre-cancerous cells that can lead to cancer.
A Pap smear can be done at a family doctors clinic or at the gynaecologist and should be part of your regular check-ups. When you start having Pap smears and how often depends on your age and previous test results.
During a Pap smear a speculum is used to open up and separate the walls of the vagina so a sample can be taken from the cervix. This examination is very quick and can be done at Cornerstone clinic. There maybe some discomfort while having the speculum examination but there is usually no pain. Some women do find they may have some spotting after the examination but it is usually light and does not last more than a day.
You may be asked to come more often if there is any abnormalities detected or if you are immunocompromised.
If you Pap smear results are abnormal, do not panic. It is actually very common to have abnormal results. Most of the time is does not mean you have cancer.
An abnormal results means that there are some changes seen on your cervix and it may be minor – low grade changes, or serious – high grade changes. These changes can be referred to as pre-cancerous if they are high grade but they aren’t cancer, it just means they may turn into cancer in the future. You may need to go for another pap test, have an HPV test if you did not have one already or see a gynaecologist for a colposcopy (a closer look at the cervix) if there are any abnormalities.
Check when the last time you had your Pap smear and book one in as soon as possible at Cornerstone Clinic. It is best you book your test when you are not expecting your period as it can interfere with the results.
