What does the Pap Smear Test Used For?

AA pap smear is a way to detect abnormal cervical cells before they turn cancerous. Often, the cells collected from a pap smear are checked for human papillomavirus (HPV) as well, a virus that causes cancerous cell changes. Both these tests are collectively useful for screening cervical cancer cases to reduce the number of new ones.

Why should I do the Pap Smear Test ?

The doctor may advise pap smear tes for the following reasons:

Screening: This is usually done to screen for cervical cancer in patients without symptoms for early identification, especially if there is a history of HIV or previous abnormal pap smears.

Diagnosis: Determining the underlying cause of vaginal symptoms, including abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.

Monitoring: As a follow-up test for monitoring cervical cell abnormalities or other findings detected on initial pap smears.

How is the Pap Smear Test Done ?

The test hardly takes 10-20 minutes. During the test, a speculum is inserted through the vagina into the cervix and a swab is taken for a cell sample, which is sent to the lab for review.At Maurya Labs we perfrom the Pap Smear mostly using the most advanced and painless technique called Liquid Based Cytology (LBC). The results of the test are given within 48 hours.

How often should Pap Smear Test be Done ?

Pap Smear should be done for females atleast once a year. The test should ideally be done along with the test fro Human Papiloma Virus which is the main reason for cervical cancer across the world. Pap Smear test is part of comprehensive health check package for women at NABL Certified Maurya Labs.