The basics of Pap smear testing

[Storyteller.]

The basics of Pap smear testing
By Cara (Khaleesi.)

Getting a Papanicolaou smear test, commonly known as a Pap smear, is a very important part of becoming an adult as these tests enable doctors to find any abnormal cells that may be present in the cervix, or the lower portion of the uterus that connects with the vagina. These abnormal cells can sometimes lead to cervical cancer which is a big killer of adults aged thirty to sixty and the sooner these cells are found the easier it is to treat them. Changes in cells are usually caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is commonly caught through unprotected sexual intercourse, so if the results come back abnormal a second test to look for this virus may be recommended.

Different health organisations around the world have different regulations for when and how often somebody should be getting a Pap smear. In England tests are recommended from the age of twenty five onwards and should be carried out every three years until the person is fifty where the frequency decreases to once every five years. Meanwhile, in Scotland and Wales the tests begin at the earlier age of twenty but the frequency remains the same. In the United States women from the age of twenty-one onwards are advised to have a smear test regularly. Typically women who have been sexually active for two years or more are advised to consider having a smear test even if they do not fit within these age ranges but it’s important to check the recommendations for the country you live in.

There are several precautions one should take before having a smear test in order to ensure the results are as accurate as possible. These include not having sex and not using any creams or medicines inside the vagina for 48 hours before the appointment. Menstruation can also affect the results of the Pap smear so it’s advised to book an appointment on a day where a period isn’t expected.

The smear test doesn’t take long to carry out and it is incredibly important to relax in order to ease any discomfort. During the test a vaginal speculum, which is a medical instrument that is used to expand an orifice or cavity in the body to allow inspection, is inserted into the vagina and opened slightly so that the doctor or nurse is able to see the cervix. This instrument might feel a little cold especially if the speculum is metal. After this a soft brush is inserted and is used to collect cells from the cervix to provide a sample which can be analysed. A little discomfort may be felt while this is happening but there should be no pain and it’s important to let the doctor or nurse know if the test is painful. The cell sample will then be sent away for analysis and the doctor or nurse will explain how the results are delivered as this varies by health organisation.

The lining of the cervix has many blood vessels near it and some spotting may be experienced during and just after the test but this is completely normal and isn’t a cause for worry. Some people may also experience period-like cramps for up to a day after the test. If the pain is particularly severe or lasts for a long time, it is recommended you call a doctor.

It is very important that you follow the recommendations set by healthcare organisations and get the Pap smear when it is offered. Although some people feel uncomfortable with the idea of getting a smear test, remember that the Pap smear has saved many lives and is a relatively minor procedure which does not take very long. As with other medical procedures, such as vaccines and physicals, a few minutes of discomfort are worth your life.