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Pap Smear Test in Bhubaneswar

Pap Smear

Pap Smear Test in Bhubaneswar

A Pap smear, or Pap test, is a vital screening procedure specifically designed for cervical cancer detection. This test involves collecting cells from the cervix to evaluate any abnormal changes indicative of cancerous or precancerous conditions. It plays a crucial role in early detection and prevention strategies.

Before the procedure

Preparing oneself for a pap smear can be beneficial and can yield accurate results.

  • Vaginal intercourse can be avoided two days before undergoing the test.

  • Contraceptive or birth control pills are to be avoided.

  • The appointment can be scheduled five days after the menstrual cycle ends.

During the procedure

The procedure is performed with utmost care and takes a couple of minutes.

  • An instrument called a speculum is used to hold the vagina for a tool (small brush or spatula) to pass.

  • The small brush is then inserted into the cervix, and gentle scrapings are obtained.

  • It is not a painful process, but the individual can feel slight discomfort.

After the procedure

There can be vaginal bleeding soon after the sample is collected in few cases and is sent for examination. The pathologist screens for the presence of abnormal or cancerous cells. The presence of a positive report requires the consultation of a healthcare provider. With the best obstetrician doctors, we offer you the best pap smear test in Bhubaneswar.

Get peace of mind with a Pap smear test at Manipal Hospitals in Bhubaneswar. Our expert gynecologists provide comprehensive screenings for early detection of cervical cancer.

FAQ's

Pap smear is a cervical cancer screening test. It detects the presence of any abnormal cells by collecting the cells from the lower end of the uterus, the cervix, and then evaluating them.

Pap smear tests can have certain limitations such as the following.
False negative results: In rare cases, detection of abnormal cells can be missed leading to false negative results. This might increase the anxiety of the patient as well as unnecessary follow-ups.

Screening can be limited:  Primary detection of cervical abnormalities is done and other gynaecological conditions may not be screened.
 

Pap smear tests and pelvic examinations can be done together but they diagnose different issues. 

  • A pelvic examination is done to check for any abnormalities in the vagina, vulva, rectum, pelvis, and ovaries. 

  • A pap smear is done to check for any abnormal changes in the cervix that can develop into cancer.

Hysterectomy is a procedure done to remove the uterus along with the cervix. This process is done to remove the cancerous or precancerous lesion. In such cases, it is advisable to undergo a pap test for evaluation and monitoring. Even in cases of partial hysterectomy, Pap smears are carried out as a precautionary measure.

Not much preparation is required for obtaining a pap smear. Following are the precautionary measures that should be followed two to three days before getting a pap smear test done:

  • Intercourse should be avoided before getting the test.

  • The application of creams and certain medications should be stopped.

  • Spermicidal foams or jellies should also be cut off.

The patient's feet are positioned in stirrups securely and an instrument called a speculum is placed into the vagina for proper visualisation and a brush is introduced to collect the sample cells of the cervix and these samples are evaluated by a pathologist. The procedure is done within 10 to 20 minutes. 

Individuals can experience very mild cramping and few can experience bleeding and spotting which lasts for a minimum of two days after the test. No major side effects can be witnessed. If any woman notices an itching sensation in the area from which the swab is taken, they should consult a health professional immediately.

Menstruation is not considered as an obstacle to performing a pap smear. A smear taken during menstruation cannot alter the results to a greater extent. In some cases, based on the flow, the test can be delayed. 
 

There are three results for a pap test.

  • Normal: A normal test report indicates that there are no changes in the cells present in the cervix.

  • Not clear: Certain life changes such as pregnancy, infection, and menopause can produce a common not clear or unclear result.

  • Abnormal: When there are abnormal cells in the cervix, the report produces an abnormal result. 

It is advised not to panic about any kind of pap smear result. Consult a health care provider who can recommend other confirmatory tests such as colposcopy, and HPV testing. Depending on the abnormalities, there can be variations in the treatment options to remove the abnormal cells. 

The following can be observed after a Pap test and necessary precautions are taken. 

  • Bleeding can occur in a few situations in minor amounts and excessive bleeding should be notified to the health care professional immediately.

  • If the HPV (human papillomavirus) test is positive along with abnormal cells in the pap test, an additional test can be advised by your doctor to rule out the false negative values of the reports.

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