Cervical Smear
Cervical Pap Smear Test
A cervical smear, also known as a Papanicolaou test or Pap test, is a screening method used to detect cervical cell abnormalities. It plays a crucial role in early diagnosis and timely treatment of cervical pathologies, ensuring women's sexual and reproductive health. During the examination, a healthcare provider gently scrapes a small sample of shed epithelial cells from the cervix using a small brush, which is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. It is an effective screening method for the early detection of precancerous cervical lesions. If the test results indicate abnormal cells, it does not necessarily mean cancer is present. Further diagnostic tests are recommended by the doctor to confirm the findings.
Women aged 25 to 64 years, who have a history of sexual activity, are advised to undergo regular cervical cytology examinations. The optimal timing for the procedure is after menstruation.
