PAP SMEAR TEST
Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer in women worldwide. Regular screening has led to a large reduction in the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer.
For many years the screening of cells was, and continues to be, through the conventional Papanicolaou Test (CPS).
The Pap test involves taking a certain sample of cells from the woman’s cervix, which is located in the narrow part of the uterus, in the upper part of the vagina.
The Pap test only takes 5 minutes, and most women agree that although they may feel some discomfort and anxiety, it is painless and takes very little time.
The doctor explains to you the position you must be in order to take the sample and proceed to take the cells.
The sample with your cells will be examined by the cytologist under the microscope to identify abnormal cells, if any. If changes are found you will be informed immediately and we will recommend you to do further tests and possible treatment.
LIQUID PHASE PAPANICOLAU TEST (LBC) / THIN PREP
However, to overcome the limitations of the conventional Papanicolaou Test (CPS), in order to better analyze the sample materials, we now recommend the Liquid Phase Papanicolaou Test (LBC) / THIN PREP.
It is a relatively new method of Pap test (from 1990 onwards), which has more precision in obtaining the sample and better analysis of the cells.
Through this method, the cells are placed in a vial with a special liquid and then processed by the laboratory.
In this way, the chances of error in the diagnosis of cellular alterations are greatly reduced. Also, if you wish, it can be sent with the same sample and HPV identification of warts, certain cultures, etc.
How often should I have a Pap smear or Liquid Phase Pap smear (LBC) / THIN PREP?
Every year after the start of sexual life, if and as long as the Pap test results are normal.
