Cytology/ Cervical Health

What is cytology? Cytology (also known as Pap Smear or Pap Test) is an exam consisting of a single cell type that is often found in fluid specimens. It’s a method used to diagnose or screen for cancer. It detects changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cancer. Screening includes cervical cytology and testing for human papillomavirus (HPV). Why is it important to conduct cytology? It can take between 3 to 7 years for changes in the cervical cells to become cancer. Cytology can detect these changes before they become cancer. Cervical screening can save lives. How is cytology performed? A gynecologist will gently insert a partial part of a spectrum into your vagina and opens the speculum to widen your vaginal walls. Then the gynecologist slowly scrapes or brushes the tissue surface. When to get screened? Age 21 to 29 years: It is recommended to start with a screening and to follow up every 3 years. Age 30 to 65 years: It is recommended to complete a screening using the following methods:

• HPV Test every 5 years
• HPV/ PAP cotest every 5 years
• Pap test every 3 years