How is a cervical smear tested When is it ordered What are its results

Has your doctor recommended a Pap Smear test (cervical screening)? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. The Pap Smear is one of the most essential preventive tests women can take to protect themselves from cervical cancer, which is the second most common cancer affecting women worldwide. This simple and quick test can detect early abnormal changes in cervical cells, long before they turn into cancer. In this medical guide from Dalili Medical, we walk you step by step through everything you need to know about this test: What is it? How is it done? When should you get it? And how can you interpret the results? Discover how a test that only takes a few minutes could bring you peace of mind for years to come.

Who Should Get a Pap Smear?

International health guidelines recommend Pap Smear screening for:

Women aged 21 to 65 years.
Starting from age 21: once every 3 years if results are normal.
From age 30 onwards: every 5 years if combined with an HPV test.
Women at higher risk, including those who:
- Have a history of HPV infection
- Have a weakened immune system
- Are chronic smokers
- Have a family history of cervical cancer

How Is the Pap Smear Performed?

The test is simple and takes only a few minutes:

You lie comfortably on a medical examination table.
The doctor uses a speculum to gently open the vaginal walls.
A soft brush or spatula is used to collect cells from the cervix.
The sample is sent to a lab for microscopic analysis.

⚠️ The test is not painful, but you may feel slight discomfort or mild cramping, similar to menstrual cramps.

How to Prepare for a Pap Smear

To ensure accurate results:

Avoid intercourse for 24–48 hours before the test.
Do not use vaginal creams, douches, or medications before the test.
Do not schedule the test during your menstrual period.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or have any vaginal infections.

Interpreting Pap Smear Results

Results are generally categorized as:

✅ Normal (Negative):

No abnormal cells were found. Your next test may be scheduled after 3 years.

⚠️ Abnormal:

This does not mean cancer, but further evaluation is needed. Possible findings include:

ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance): Minor cell changes; unclear if pre-cancerous.
LSIL/HSIL (Low/High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions): Mild to severe abnormalities; may need biopsy or treatment.
Cancerous cells: Immediate referral to a specialist for confirmation and treatment.

Difference Between Pap Smear and HPV Test

Pap Smear: Examines cell changes in the cervix.
HPV Test: Detects the presence of high-risk HPV virus, which can cause those changes.

For women over 30, both tests are often done together for higher diagnostic accuracy.

Is the Test Painful? Any Side Effects?

The Pap Smear is not painful, but may cause:

Mild discomfort during the procedure
Light spotting or bleeding for a day afterward (normal)
Rarely, nausea or slight dizziness

How to Protect Yourself from Cervical Cancer

Get regular Pap Smear screenings
HPV vaccination (recommended between ages 9–26, and up to 45 in some cases)
Avoid smoking
Practice safe sex
Treat infections or inflammations early

FAQs About Pap Smear

Can I get a Pap Smear while pregnant?
Yes, it is safe during pregnancy, especially in the early months.

When is the best time to get tested?
Ideally, a week after your period ends, before ovulation.

Is one test enough?
No, regular testing is needed based on age and medical advice.

Do unmarried women need this test?
Usually, only if they are sexually active or have unusual symptoms.

✅ Conclusion

The Pap Smear test is a simple, effective, and potentially life-saving screening tool. It helps detect abnormal cervical cell changes before they turn into cancer. By undergoing regular testing, you take a big step toward protecting your health and preventing cervical cancer.

If you're within the recommended age or have risk factors, don’t delay. Talk to your doctor and schedule your Pap Smear today—because prevention is better than cure.