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Smear test

What is a smear test?

The smear test, also called a Pap test (Papanicolaou test), is a simple test that scrapes cells off the surface of your cervix for examination in a laboratory.

Why have it?

It can detect early warning signs of cancer of the cervix (cancer of the neck of the womb). This is one of the most curable forms of cancer if detected early; hardly any women would die from it if all had regular smears as recommended by the medical profession. The early changes in the cells cause no symptoms, and so women in early stage of cervical cancer feel quite healthy.

Who should have it?

Any woman over 15 years of age who has had sex should have a smear test, and it should be performed every 2 years up to the age of 70. Even women who have stopped having periods or stopped having sex should have regular smear tests.

When is the ideal time to have a smear?

The best time to have a smear is any time after your period has finished. It should not be done if you have been douching or using vaginal tablets in the previous 24 hours.

How is the Pap smear done?

It is part of a normal pelvic or vaginal examination.

1. You lie on your back or your side on the couch.
2. An instrument called a speculum is slid gently into your vagina and then opened so that the doctor can see the cervix clearly, with the help of a light.
3. The smear is then taken with a thin spatula and a soft brush. It is really a very thin amount of mucus with cells that sit on the surface and the small opening of the cervix. The smear is then placed on a glass slide, which is sent away to be tested.

Does the smear test hurt or take long?

It is a simple test that does not take long (only about 2 minutes) and should not hurt. If you are tense, it may feel a little uncomfortable but will not cause any pain. The more relaxed you are the better. Deep breathing will help you relax.

Will I feel embarrassed?

It is quite normal to feel a little embarrassed. Doctors, of course, are used to doing them and perform many each day, so that they understand. Nobody has ever died of embarrassment, but many have died of cancer of the cervix by not having a smear test.

What about the results?

The results take about 1 week. Ask your doctor when you should ring for the results. The results are almost always normal. Abnormal cells are seen in only about 3 in 1000 smears and do not always mean cancer. For most women who have abnormal cells, the treatment is simple and effective.

Key points

• The smear test is simple, quick and painless.
• It should be done every 2 years.
• It should be done throughout life from the start of sexual activity up to 70 years
• The smear test allows your doctor to prevent cancer of the cervix.
• Cancer of the cervix is curable if detected early.
• The smear test is your safeguard.

Copyright 1995: John Murtagh, Professor of General Practice
Monash University, Melbourne, Australia