Cervical Cancer Screening

 

What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

 

 

Other symptoms include:

 

 

What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

 

 

Other symptoms include:

 

 

Cervical Cancer Screening

The most reliable method of detecting cervical cancer is pap smears and HPV tests. The symptoms of cervical cancer are sometimes mistaken for other less serious health conditions, so it is best to incorporate cervical cancer screening into your health check-ups. Both pap smears and HPV tests involve collecting cell samples from the vagina with a small brush or spatula. While similar in terms of their methods, the dierence between the two tests is that a pap smear detects precancerous or cancerous cells, whereas an HPV test detects the presence of human papillomavirus.

 

Screening Guidelines

Depending on your age and health history, the frequency of testing may vary.

Age Group	Screening Recommendations*
Below 30 years old	Screening is recommended if sexually active
30 - 65 years old	Initial screening: Yearly pap smear for the first two years.   If initial results are normal: Standalone pap smear every 3 years or pap smear and HPV co-testing every 5 years. Alternatively, standalone HPV testing every 5 years
Above 65 years old	Screening may be discontinued if you had regular screenings with normal results. Consult your doctor for personalised advice.

*Women with a history of cervical cancer, exposure to DES before birth, HIV infection, organ transplant or who have a weakened immune system may need more frequent screening.

 

What Happens During Cervical Cancer Screening

During a pap smear or HPV test, you will need to undress from the waist down, lie on an exam table with your feet in stirrups, and the doctor will gently insert a speculum into your vagina to look at your cervix. They will then use a small brush or spatula to collect cells from your cervix, which might cause a little pressure or discomfort but should not hurt.

Once the speculum is removed, you can get dressed. The whole process takes just a few minutes. You will be informed when the results are ready, usually between a few days to a week

 

How Do I Prepare for Cervical Screening?

 

Before the test

Schedule the test to happen on a day when you are not on your period. Inform the doctor or medical staff:

	If you had any abnormal pap smears/HPV tests or cervical issues in the past
	Mention any medications or health conditions you have

 

For 2 days before the test, avoid:

 

	Sexual intercourse
	Using tampons
	Douching (cleaning the inside of your vagina)
	Using vaginal creams or medications

 

During the test

	Wear comfortable clothes that are easy to take off
	Practise deep breathing to stay calm

 

After the test

	You might experience light spotting or mild cramping, but there should not be any serious complications. If you experience discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or bleeding for more than 24 hours, contact the hospital.
	If your results appear abnormal, it does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and determine the next course of action.

 

 

 

How to Reduce the Risk of Cervical Cancer?

 

As the single biggest risk factor for cervical cancer is HPV, the best ways to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer include:

 

 

Like with most cancers, it is best to quit smoking and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of cancer