A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test or Papanicolaou test, is a screening procedure used to detect abnormal cell changes in the cervix that could potentially lead to cervical cancer. I
🧬 Pap Smear (Pap Test) – Overview
📌 What is it?
A Pap smear is a screening procedure used to detect precancerous or cancerous changes in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
🩺 Purpose
The primary purpose of a Pap test is to:
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Detect abnormal cervical cells that may develop into cervical cancer
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Identify infections or inflammation
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Sometimes detect HPV (Human Papillomavirus) if co-testing is done
👩⚕️ Who Should Get It?
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Women aged 21–65 should get a Pap smear every 3 years
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After 30 years, it can be done every 5 years if combined with HPV testing
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Women over 65 may stop testing if they've had regular normal results
🔬 How the Test is Done
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The woman lies on an exam table with legs in stirrups
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A speculum is inserted into the vagina to widen it
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A small brush or spatula is used to gently scrape cells from the cervix
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The collected cells are sent to a lab for analysis
📊 Results
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Normal (Negative): No abnormal cells found
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ASC-US (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance): Mild abnormalities – may require HPV test
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LSIL/HSIL: Low or high-grade lesions (pre-cancerous changes)
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AGC: Atypical glandular cells – needs further testing
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Cancerous cells: Rare, but requires immediate follow-up
⚠️ Risks and Considerations
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Slight discomfort or cramping during the procedure
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Light bleeding may occur
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Not 100% accurate – false negatives can happen
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Not a test for ovarian cancer, STDs, or fertility
❗ Why It’s Important
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Early detection of cervical cancer saves lives
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It can identify changes early, before cancer develops
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Often used along with HPV test, since high-risk HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer
📆 When to Avoid Testing
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During menstruation (especially heavy bleeding)
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Recent sexual activity (within 24 hours)
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Use of vaginal creams or douches before test (may affect results)
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