Pap smears Dubai
The Papanicolaou smear (Pap smear or cervical smear), a routine screening test for cancer of the uterine cervix, was reported in 1928, and its efficacy was proved by 1941. Since then, it has been used worldwide as a clinical tool for the early detection of cancer. Cancer of the cervix follows a predictable sequence. Precancerous changes, not visible to the naked eye, are detected readily in cells sampled by the Papanicolaou smear. The evolution from the precancerous stage to cancer is slow, and routine annual screening makes this a curable cancer and totally preventable disease.
A Pap smear and the HPV test are often done together and 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.
Your family physician, Dr Ruhil Badiani, or GP perform Pap smears as part of a pelvic exam. The test checks for:
When you start having Pap smears and how often depends on your age and previous test results.
How should I prepare for a Pap smear?
Some things that you do in the days before a Pap smear can affect test results. For the most accurate results, you should:
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 with the family physician (GP). There may be 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.
How often should you get a Pap smear?
You may be asked to come more often if there are any abnormalities detected or if you are immunocompromised. It is still advisable to have a Pap smear after the age of 25 even if you are not sexually active. If you are unsure, then speak to your family doctor who can discuss this further with you.
What if I have an abnormal result?
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 result means that there are some changes seen on your cervix (CIN I-III) 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 Dubai. For an appointment with Dr Ruhil Badiani, our British GP please contact:
What’s app/call: +97150 494 6377
13 October 2023
