March 29, 2024

The smear

Pap smear is a gynecological examination that involves taking cells from the surface of the cervix. These are placed on a glass slide and observed under a microscope. Depending on their appearance, the doctor will determine a possible cervical abnormality: infection, pre-cancerous lesions, cancer ...

The smear can cause some anxiety, but is completely painless. Doctor will scrape with a specific brush the surface of the neck, to collect cells in a sensitive area between the neck opening and its outer part.
This screening test is not 100% reliable, and sometimes some anomalies can slip through the cracks. This is why doctors recommend having a Pap smear every two years.

The smear can detect cancer of the cervix: it is a disease which can be quickly managed when it is detected early. The treatment prevents the disease does not spread in neighboring organs.

From the age of 20, at the time of the first sexual intercourse, a woman must perform this examination. Even after menopause (65 years), no woman is spared, she must continue to perform a smear regularly, regardless of hormone replacement therapy.

Before practicing this test, some recommendations must be observed, it is necessary to to avoid the period of menstruation, having sex two days before, applying creams or douching ...
Once this exam is done, all you have to do is wait for the results that will be sent to you by mail within two to four weeks.
 
Our advice
All general practitioners can practice a smear. If you feel more confident with your doctor, you do not need to see a gynecologist. Your GP will use a speculum to access the bottom of the vagina ...

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