Pap Smear Test in Pune

Pap smear test is a screening test for cervical cancer. This test is used to detect abnormal cancerous or noncancerous cells present in the cervix. The cervix is the opening part of the uterus. The procedure of the pap smear test can be a little uncomfortable, but it does not cause long-term pain or discomfort.

What is a pap smear test?

A pap smear or a pap test is used to detect or screen for cervical cancer. This test checks for abnormal growth of cells that can potentially become cancerous. It also checks for infections or inflammation.

What does a pap smear test use for?

A pap smear test is used to check for:

• Cervical cancer
• Potential precancerous cells in the cervix
• Human papillomavirus

This test also detects the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) because it is one of the major causes of cervical cancer. However, it cannot detect STIs like syphilis and chlamydia but can detect yeast infection and bacterial overgrowth.

Who needs a pap smear test?

According to the American Cancer Society, women aged 25 years or over should get a cervical screening test. However, women who are at high risk for cervical cancer should get this test more frequently. You may need a pap smear test more frequently if you:

• Are HIV-positive
• Have a weakened immune system due to organ transplant or chemotherapy

However, if you are over 25 years old and have not had an abnormal pap smear test result, then consult your doctor about having the test once every five years. One should get a pap smear test depending on their age, not their sexual activity status.

How to prepare for a pap smear test?

If you are going for a pap smear test, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. A few factors can affect your pap smear test results. For an accurate pap smear test results:

• Avoid having vaginal sex two days before the test.
• Reschedule your appointment if you are menstruating on the day.
• Do not use tampons, birth control foams, vaginal creams, douches or lubricants two days before the test.

What happens during a pap smear test?

The pap smear test procedure can be a little uncomfortable, but it can be done quickly. The procedure only takes about a few minutes. During the test procedure, you will lie down on the examination table with your legs spread. There will be stirrups to rest your feet. You will be given a cloth or sheet to place over your legs.

After that, your doctor will slowly insert a speculum into your vagina. Your doctor will collect a small sample of your cervix cells by using a spatula or a cytobrush. The sample then will be sent to the laboratory for examination.

What do the test results mean?

If you have a normal test result, it means no abnormal cells were found and you probably do not need a pap smear test for the next three years. However, abnormal pap smear test results do not indicate that you have cancer. It indicates the presence of abnormal cells in the cervix. There are several levels of abnormal cells in the cervix, such as:

• Atypia
• Mild
• Moderate
• Severe dysplasia
• Carcinoma in situ

Always consult your doctor to understand your test results better.

You can now easily book a pap smear test in pune. Several pap smear test centres in pune offer them at an affordable price. The pap smear test cost in pune may vary depending on the type of testing you opt for. Generally, pap smear test costs in pune start from 700 rupees only.