A PAP smear, also called a PAP test, is a screening procedure used to detect early signs of cervical cancer. During a PAP smear, a Medical Laboratory Technician collects a sample of cells from the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The American Cancer Society recommends that most women start getting PAP smears at age 21. The screening schedule can vary depending on age, health history, and other factors. Talk to your doctor about when and how often you should get a PAP smear.

 A PAP smear is a quick and relatively painless procedure. During the PAP smear, you will lie on an exam table with your legs bent and feet in stirrups. The Technician will insert a speculum, a lubricated instrument, into your vagina to hold it open. A soft brush will then be used to gently collect a sample of cells from the cervix. The cells will be placed on a slide and sent to a laboratory for testing.

Cellular Sampling Technique:  Unlike most swabs that simply brush the surface, a PAP smear utilizes a special cytobrush. This brush gently scrapes the transformation zone, a sensitive area at the cervix junction where precancerous cells are most likely to develop. This targeted approach increases the likelihood of detecting abnormalities.

The Bethesda System:  PAP test results aren’t simply positive or negative. The Bethesda System (TBS) categorizes findings using precise terminology. Understanding your TBS result empowers you to participate effectively in discussions with your doctor. For instance, a finding of ASC-US (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance) indicates slightly abnormal cells that require further investigation, while AGC (atypical glandular cells) warrants additional tests to rule out glandular problems.

Liquid-Based PAP Test:  While the traditional PAP smear involves smearing collected cells onto a slide, a liquid-based PAP test (LBC) suspends the cells in a liquid medium. This liquid environment allows for better cell preservation and distribution, leading to potentially higher accuracy in detecting abnormalities, especially precancerous lesions called HSIL (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion).

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Co-testing:  Certain strains of HPV are linked to cervical cancer. Co-testing involves performing both a PAP test and an HPV test simultaneously. This combined approach can enhance the effectiveness of screening, particularly for women aged 30 and above. Depending on the test results, Doctor might recommend extending the screening interval to three or five years.

By understanding these unique details, women can approach PAP smears with more awareness and participate actively in the cervical health journey. Remember, early detection is key in preventing cervical cancer.

Submitted by –
Ms Yasmeen