Pap Test: A Screening Tool for Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Cervical cancer is often caused by a persistent infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which are sexually transmitted viruses. HPV can cause abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix, which may eventually lead to cancer if not detected and treated early.
According to the African Health Organization, In Africa, 34 out of every 100,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 23 out of every 100,000 women die from cervical cancer every year.
What is a Pap Test?
One of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer is to get regular screening tests, such as the Pap test. The Pap test, also known as the Pap smear, is a simple and painless procedure that collects cells from the surface of the cervix and examines them under a microscope for signs of abnormality. The Pap test can detect precancerous or cancerous cells in the cervix before they cause any symptoms or spread to other parts of the body.
Who is the Pap Test for?
The Pap test is recommended for women aged 21 to 65 years old. The frequency of the Pap test depends on several factors, such as age, medical history, and previous test results. Generally, women aged 21 to 29 should have a Pap test every three years, while women aged 30 to 65 should have a Pap test every five years if combined with an HPV test, or every three years if not combined with an HPV test. Women who have had a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus and cervix) or who are older than 65 may not need to have a Pap test, depending on their individual circumstances.
How to Prepare for Pap Test
To prepare for a Pap test, women should avoid having sexual intercourse, douching, or using tampons, vaginal creams, or other products for two days before the test. They should also avoid scheduling the test during their menstrual period, as this may affect the accuracy of the results. The Pap test is usually performed during a pelvic exam by a healthcare provider. The provider inserts a speculum into the vagina to widen it and expose the cervix. Then, using a small brush or spatula, the provider gently scrapes some cells from the cervix and places them on a glass slide or in a liquid solution. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
How Long Should I Wait for My Pap Test?
The results of the Pap test are usually available within a few days. A normal result means that no abnormal cells were found in the sample. An abnormal result means that some cells showed changes that may indicate precancerous or cancerous conditions. Depending on the degree and type of abnormality, further tests or treatments may be required. These may include colposcopy (a procedure that uses a magnifying device to examine the cervix more closely), biopsy (a procedure that removes a small piece of tissue from the cervix for examination), or surgery (a procedure that removes part or all of the cervix or other organs affected by cancer).
How Perfect is a Pap Test?
The Pap test is not perfect and may sometimes miss some abnormalities or give false-positive results. Therefore, it is important to have regular follow-up tests and exams as recommended by your healthcare provider. It is also important to remember that the Pap test does not screen for other types of gynecological cancers, such as ovarian or uterine cancer, or other sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. Therefore, women should also practice safe sex and report any unusual symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pain, to their healthcare provider.
Conclusion
The Pap test is a simple and effective screening tool that can help prevent cervical cancer and save lives. By getting regular Pap tests and following up on any abnormal results, women can protect their health and well-being. Want to carry out a Pap Test? Talk to us today to know more about your Pap status.
Sources
- American Cancer Society. (2020). The American Cancer Society Guidelines for the Prevention and Early Detection of Cervical Cancer.
- Retrieved from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/cervical-cancer-screening-guidelines.html
- Mayo Clinic. (2019). Pap smear. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/pap-smear/about/pac-20394841
- Africa Health Organization: https://aho.org/fact-sheets/cervical-cancer-in-africa-fact-sheet/#:~:text=In%20Africa%2C%2034%20out%20of,from%20 cervical%20cancer%20every%20 year.