What Is A Pap Smear?
A Pap smear collects a small sample of cells from the cervix, the narrow opening at the base of the uterus. A laboratory then examines the cells for abnormal changes. Many samples are also tested for human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus responsible for most cervical cancers. The body usually clears HPV on its own, but a persistent infection can lead to cell changes over time.
How Often Should You Be Screened?
Recommendations vary with your age and the type of test used. As a general guide, screening every three years is common for women in their twenties and beyond, with longer intervals possible when HPV testing is included and results are normal. Women living with HIV benefit from more frequent screening. Dr Makanda will confirm the right interval for you.
Screening is still needed if you have had the HPV vaccine, and if you have been with the same partner for many years.
How Should You Prepare?
Book for a time when you are not on your period, ideally mid-cycle. For 48 hours beforehand, avoid sexual intercourse and any vaginal creams, as both can affect the sample. If you are pregnant, screening can usually still be done safely during your antenatal visits.
What Happens During The Test?
You will be given privacy to undress from the waist down. While you lie on the examination bed, Dr Makanda gently inserts a speculum to see the cervix and uses a small brush to collect the cells. Most women feel pressure or mild discomfort rather than pain, and the sampling itself takes less than a minute. Light spotting afterwards is normal.
What If Your Result Is Abnormal?
An abnormal result is common and does not mean you have cancer. Most often, it points to mild HPV-related changes that settle without treatment. Depending on the findings, you may be asked to repeat the test in a few months or to have a colposcopy, where the cervix is examined under magnification.
If treatment is needed, removing the affected area is usually a short procedure done under local anaesthetic. You can read more about it under gynaecological surgery.
Bleeding after sex or between periods should always be checked, even if your last screening was normal. Read more about abnormal uterine bleeding, or book your screening appointment.