Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening is a medical procedure used to detect abnormal cell changes in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus in the female reproductive system. The primary goal of cervical cancer screening is to identify precancerous or cancerous cells early, when they are easier to treat.

Types of Cervical Cancer Screening Tests

• Pap Test (Pap Smear): A Pap test is a procedure where a sample of cells is collected from the cervix using a spatula and brush. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope to check for abnormal cell changes.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test: An HPV test is used to detect the presence of high-risk types of HPV, which can cause cervical cancer. This test can be done on a sample of cells collected during a Pap test or as a separate test.
• Co-testing: Co-testing involves both a Pap test and an HPV test. This approach is often used for women aged 30-65 years, as it provides more accurate results than either test alone.

Who Should Get Screened

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that cervical cancer screening should start at age 21. Women between 21-29 years should have a Pap test every 3 years. Women between 30-65 years should have a co-test (Pap test and HPV test) every 5 years or a Pap test alone every 3 years.

What to Expect During the Procedure

During a cervical cancer screening, you will lie on an examination table with your feet in stirrups. A healthcare provider will insert a speculum into the vagina to hold it open and allow for easy access to the cervix. A spatula and brush are then used to collect cell samples from the cervix. The procedure may cause some discomfort, but it is usually mild and temporary.

Results and Follow-up

The results of a cervical cancer screening test can take several days to several weeks to come back. If the results are normal, you will be scheduled for a follow-up appointment in 3-5 years, depending on your age and risk factors. If the results are abnormal, you may need to have additional testing or procedures, such as a colposcopy or biopsy.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase a woman's risk of developing cervical cancer, including:

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Smoking
• Weakened immune system
• Previous diagnosis of cervical cancer or precancerous cells
• Family history of cervical cancer

Importance of Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening is essential for detecting abnormal cell changes early, when they are easier to treat. Regular screening can help prevent cervical cancer and reduce the risk of death from the disease.