During a Pap test, the doctor removes cells from the cervix and examines them for any abnormal growths and anomalies.
The major advantage of the procedure is that it detects cervical cancer early, which gives the patient a better chance of survival and recovery.
Pap smear, also known as Pap test, is a preventive screening procedure to detect cervical cancer at an early stage. It not only identifies cancer cells in the cervix but also detects the presence of any precancerous cells in the opening of the cervix. During a Pap test, the doctor removes cells from the cervix and examines them for any abnormal growths and anomalies. The procedure may cause discomfort for a while but does not turn into pain for a long time. Here’s everything you need to know about when and who should opt for the procedure.
Why is Pap test recommended for women?
The major advantage of the procedure is that it detects cervical cancer early, giving the patient a better chance of survival and recovery. It detects the presence of any abnormal anomalies which indicate that cancer may develop in the future. Doctors consider this as a necessary step to prevent any potential risk and possible development of the life-threatening disease.
Pap smear test for age groups
Under 21: Pap test is not necessary for girls under this age group.
Between 21-29: Doctors recommend girls in this age group get a Pap test every three years.
Between 30-65: The interval between two consecutive Pap tests increases to five years for women in this age bracket. Along with Pap smear, doctors also recommend HPV test for women.
Above 65 years: The test is no longer required for women above 65 years of age.
Who is at greater risk?
Though there is a defined schedule for different age groups of women, those who are at higher risk are advised to do it more frequently. You are considered at higher risk when a previous Pap test showed abnormal growth or precancerous cells. Women who have been exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) and HIV infection before birth should be tested higher than the required range. People with weakened immune systems due to a history of chemotherapy, chronic diseases, use of corticosteroids, organ transplant, or smoking are considered to be at higher risk.
Who is eligible to opt out of the process?
Women who have had a hysterectomy:
Hysterectomy is the medical term used for the surgical removal of the uterus, including the cervix. If the procedure was done for a non-cancerous condition, the doctor may recommend discontinuing the Pap test. However, eligibility may change if the surgery resulted from a pre-cancerous or cancerous condition.
old age:
It is recommended that women over the age of 65 discontinue Pap tests if all previous results are negative. However, the doctor may ask you to continue testing if you are sexually active with multiple partners.
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