Women’s health screening plays a vital role in preventing serious diseases, and one of the most important tests in this regard is the Pap Smear. This simple, quick, and effective procedure helps detect early changes in cervical cells, which can prevent cervical cancer if identified in time.
As a leading Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist in Kharadi, Pune, Dr. Shipra Kunwar emphasizes the importance of routine Pap smear tests for women’s overall reproductive health and well-being.
A Pap smear (also known as a Pap test) is a screening procedure used to detect abnormal or precancerous changes in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Named after Dr. George Papanicolaou, this test is a key tool in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer often develops slowly over time. In many cases, it starts with mild cellular changes that can be treated effectively if caught early. Regular Pap smears help in:
Detecting precancerous lesions
Identifying human papillomavirus (HPV) infections
Preventing the progression to cervical cancer
Monitoring abnormal cells for timely treatment
With early detection, cervical cancer is highly preventable and treatable.
Dr. Shipra Kunwar recommends that:
Women should start Pap smear screening at the age of 21.
Women between 21-29 years should have a Pap smear every 3 years.
Women aged 30-65 years should undergo a Pap smear combined with HPV testing every 5 years or a Pap smear alone every 3 years.
Women above 65 years may stop screening if they have had regular normal results in the past 10 years.
Women with a weakened immune system, HIV infection, or a history of abnormal Pap smears may need more frequent testing.
The Pap smear is a quick and generally painless procedure performed during a routine gynecological exam:
The patient lies on the examination table.
A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to visualize the cervix.
Using a small brush or spatula, a sample of cervical cells is collected.
The sample is sent to a laboratory for microscopic analysis.
The entire procedure takes just a few minutes and does not require anesthesia.
Most women experience only mild discomfort or a slight pressure sensation during the test. It is usually well-tolerated and does not cause significant pain. Some women may notice light spotting afterward, which is normal.
Normal: No abnormal cells are detected.
Atypical cells: Slight changes that may require repeat testing or HPV testing.
Low-grade changes: Mild abnormalities, often due to HPV infection.
High-grade changes: More serious abnormalities that may require further investigation, such as a colposcopy or biopsy.
Cancerous cells: Rare but require immediate medical attention.
Dr. Shipra Kunwar guides patients through every step, from diagnosis to treatment if any abnormality is detected.
To ensure accurate results, follow these tips before your Pap smear:
Avoid sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours before the test.
Do not use vaginal creams, douches, or medications.
Schedule the test when you are not menstruating.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or have any infections.
While a Pap smear detects abnormal cervical cells, the HPV test specifically checks for the presence of high-risk HPV strains known to cause cervical cancer. Often, both tests are done together (co-testing) for better screening accuracy.
A Pap smear is a simple yet powerful tool that can save lives by detecting cervical cancer at its earliest stage. Regular screenings, as advised by your gynecologist, are essential for every woman’s health.
If you’re due for a Pap smear or have questions about cervical cancer prevention, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shipra Kunwar in Kharadi, Pune.
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