women's health @ radium
Pap Smear
Get Tested, Stay Healthy
A Pap smear, also known as Pap test or cervical smear, is a screening test that involves collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope to check for any abnormalities. It can detect precancerous or cancerous cells in the cervix at an early stage, which can then be treated before they develop into cancer.
During the test, our doctor collects a small sample of cells from the surface of the cervix using a small spatula. The sample is then examined under a microscope to look for any abnormal or pre-cancerous cells.
Who should do pap smear?
Pap Smear is typically recommended for women as early as 21 years old. It is recommended for women to do a pap smear test every 3 years until 29 years old.
From age 30 to 65, it is recommended to do pap smears once every 3 to 5 years, depending on the individual risk factors and medical history.
Women who have had a hysterectomy may not need to undergo pap smears if the cervix was removed as part of the surgery.
If you are above the age of 21, we encourage you to undergo regular pap smear test, especially if you have a history of cervical cancer or other risk factors.
Speak to one of our doctors to for a confidential discussion and assessment in order to stay healthy and have a peace of mind.
Who is at Highest Risk for Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is most frequently diagnosed in women between the ages of 35 and 50.
Several risk factors can increase your chance of developing cervical cancer. It is worth noting that although these risk factors can increase the odds of developing cervical cancer, many women with these risks do not develop this disease.
HPV INFECTION Human Papillomavirus, or commonly known as HPV virus is the most important risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV is a group of more than 150 related viruses. Some of these viruses can cause a type of growth called papillomas, which are commonly known as warts.
HPV can infect cells on the surface of the skin, and linings of the genitals, anus, mouth and throat. Some high-risk types of HPV, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18 are strongly linked to cervical cancer, among others.
SEXUAL HISTORY If a woman is sexually active at a young age, typically below the age of 18 years old, it increases the risk of cervical cancer. Other factors include having many sexual partners and having a partner who is at high risk of HPV infection.
SMOKING Smoking has always been linked to increased risk of several types of cancers, including cervical cancer. Cancer-causing chemicals from the cigarettes are absorbed through the lungs and carried into the bloodstream throughout the body.
Tobacco by-products have been found in the cervical mucus of women who smoke. It is believed that long-term smoking alters and damages the cervix cells and contribute to the development of cervical cancer.
CHLAMYDIA INFECTION Chlamydia is a common kind of bacteria spread by sexual contact. It infects the reproductive system. Very often, women who are infected with chlamydia show no symptoms and they may not know that they are infected unless they undergo an examination.
Some studies seem to show a higher risk of cervical cancer in women whose have had past chlamydia infection. It is believed that Chlamydia bacteria help HPV grow on the cervix which may increase the risk of cervical cancer.
LONG-TERM USE OF ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES There is some evidence that taking oral contraceptives for an extended period of time can increase the risk of cervical cancer. Studies show that the longer a woman is on oral contraceptives, the higher the risk of cervical cancer. However, the risks go back down after stopping oral contraceptives.
FAMILY HISTORY Cervical cancer may run in the family. If sister or mother had cervical cancer, then your chances of developing the disease is higher than if no one in your family had it.
What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
Early stages of cervical cancer often don’t present symptoms, making it difficult to detect. Symptoms usually show after the cancer has spread.
When symptoms of early-stage cervical cancer do occur, they may include the following signs:
- ABNORMAL VAGINAL BLEEDING This could include after sexual intercourse, between periods, or after menopause.
- UNUSUAL DISCHARGE You may notice unusual discharge that could be bloody, watery, of foul-smelling.
- PAIN DURING SEX You may experience pain or discomfort during sex.
- URINARY PROBLEMS Pain or burning sensation during urination or increased frequency in urination
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Keep in mind that these symptoms could also indicate other underlying health conditions, so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis.