PAP Smear

What is the Pap smear?

The Pap smear test is a simple test during which the gynecologist examines the cervix for any precancerous and cancerous lesions he/she can detect. The whole world owes the discovery of the Pap test or the Papanikolaou test to George Papanikolaou. He was a Greek physician who, during his scientific research in America, discovered it.

Is it necessary?

Prevention of cervical cancer is life-saving for a woman. Cervical cancer is the second, most frequent cancer in the female population. However, doctors can diagnose it early by showing whether suspicious cell lesions are present for neoplasia and which may develop into cervical cancer. In women who do not do the Papanikolaou test regularly, cervical cancer can develop without a warning, as it doesn’t have any symptoms. When the symptoms occur, the disease will already be in advanced stages. With the PAP test, the doctor can also detect some sexually transmitted infections or diseases. Moreover, in addition to the detection of abnormal cells in the cervix and endocervix the Papanikolaou test can detect vaginitis, cervicitis and Infections.

When should a woman begin being tested?

She should do the first pap smear 2 years after the first sexual intercourse.

How is it performed?

The woman is put in gynecological position. The doctor examines the cervix with the speculum and then he takes the smear. At our office we perform the Thin Prep which also gives us the ability to identify HPV if needed.

Does it hurt?

It is painless.

Should the patient be afraid if she notices some small blood loss after the pap smear?

It is completely normal to see small quantity of blood after the pap smear. It stops very quickly some minutes after it is done.

During which time of the cycle should the woman do it?

The patient does not have to be on menstruation. 

Does she need special preparation?

No, she doesn’t need special preparation.

Which should be the frequency of testing?

Once every year under the condition that pap smear is completely normal.