Know About the Pap Smear Test
In India, 6% to 29% of all cancers are accounted for by cervical cancer, which is a major cause of mortality in women, says an article on the National Center for Biotechnology Information. However, cervical cancer can be detected at an early stage through the Papanicolaou test, commonly known as the Pap Test. This can increase the chances of successful treatment of the disease. Some of the best gynaecologists in Bangalore recommend this test at regular intervals for women over the age of 40.
Pap Test – What Is It?
A Pap smear is a screening procedure that detects the presence of cancerous or pre-cancerous cells present in the woman’s cervix. During the process, you are required to visit the gynaecology hospital, undress from the waist and lay on your back on the examination table. The doctor inserts a plastic or metal speculum inside the vagina. This keep the vaginal walls open, so that the cervix can be reached easily. This also creates mild pressure on the pelvic region. After this, a small brush or spatula is used to collect cervical cells. These samples are sent to the lab for testing. The procedure can be slightly uncomfortable, and you might feel the scratching when cells are being collected. However, it does not have any long-term effect.
Prepare Yourself for the Test
The best gynaecologists in Bangalore suggest the following tips before a Pap Smear to make the process smooth and successful.
- Avoid scheduling a test while you are menstruating because it might affect the results.
- Stop using vaginal contraceptives like creams, birth control foams, jellies and so on two days before the Pap smear. These might wash away the defected cells.
- Try not to have sexual intercourse and avoid washing your vagina with fluids other than water two days before the test.
- Stop all vaginal medications, except the ones prescribed by the doctor, a couple of days before the test.
- Make sure you are calm and relaxed during the process for a smooth experience. Keep taking deep breaths throughout.
- If you are a new mother, you must wait for three months after birth before going for the test. This will increase the accuracy of the results.
- If you are pregnant, go for the test within the first six months. Post this, the test could be painful.
What do the Results Mean?
The test results are negative if the cervical cells are normal and of healthy size and shape. You will not be required to undergo any treatments or pap smear for the next three years. In case, the results are abnormal, it means that the cervical cells have something unusual. It does not always mean cancer. It could be anything, ranging from an infection in the cervix to a defect in the shape of the cells. However, some cells could be pre-cancerous.
Regular tests can reduce chances of cancer by 80%. So, visit the best gynaecologist in Bangalore today to get your test done to ensure early detection and treatment.