Pap Smear Test by Conventional Method

What Does the Pap Smear Test Measure?

The Pap smear test examines cervical cells under a microscope to look for several important indicators:

• Abnormal cellular changes: Identifies changes in cell size, shape, and appearance that may signal precancerous conditions.
• Precancerous cells: Detects cells with the potential to develop into cancer if left untreated.
• Cancerous cells: Identifies existing cervical cancer cells
• Infections and inflammation: Can reveal certain vaginal or cervical infections that may need treatment.

• Overall cervical health: Assesses the general condition of your cervical tissue.

Pap Smear Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for a Pap Smear Test?

While the Pap smear test is primarily a screening test performed even without symptoms. Your doctor may recommend it if you experience certain warning signs:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after sexual intercourse, between periods, or after menopause.
• Unusual vaginal discharge that is watery, bloody, heavy, or has a foul odour.
• Pelvic pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Persistent pelvic pressure or pain

Who Should Get a Pap Smear Test?

The Pap smear test is recommended for different groups of women based on their health needs:

• Women aged 21 to 30 years for routine preventive screening every 3 years
• Women with compromised immune systems due to HIV infection or immunosuppressant medications.
• Women with a history of smoking or a previous diagnosis of precancerous cells.
• Women who have been sexually active and are at risk for cervical cancer.
• Women as part of routine gynaecological health assessments.

Why Is a Pap Smear Test Done?

The Pap smear test is performed for early detection of abnormal cervical cells, allowing for timely intervention and treatment to prevent the development of cervical cancer.

Importance of a Pap Smear Test

The Pap smear test plays a crucial role in women's healthcare by serving as one of the most effective tools for preventing cervical cancer. Its clinical significance lies in its ability to detect precancerous conditions years before they might develop into cancer. Early detection through regular screening dramatically improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

The test guides treatment decisions, helping doctors determine whether watchful waiting, more frequent testing, or immediate intervention is needed. This proactive approach has proven to save countless lives and makes cervical cancer one of the most preventable forms of cancer when regular screening is followed.

Pap Smear Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to Book a Pap Smear Test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the 'Pap Smear Test', choose a convenient time slot, and visit the nearest Metropolis Lab to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
3. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL- & CAP-accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
4. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is Home Sample Collection for the Pap Smear Test Available Near You?

No, home sample collection is not available for the Pap Smear Test. Our trained professionals ensure proper handling and processing at our accredited facilities. With our extensive network of 10,000 touchpoints in over 750 towns in India, we're committed to making diagnostic testing accessible while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and reliability for your test analysis.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Pap Smear Test Report?

Reports are usually available within 2 days once the sample reaches the lab.

Where Can I See or Get the Pap Smear Test Results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting Pap Smear Test Results

What Your Pap Smear Test Results May Indicate

The table below helps you understand what your Pap smear test results mean and their clinical significance:

Conditions that May Affect Pap Smear Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your Pap smear test results and should be considered before the procedure:

• Recent sexual intercourse within 48 hours can introduce foreign cells and interfere with sample quality.
• Vaginal infections or inflammation may mask abnormal cells or cause false interpretations.
• Menstrual bleeding can obscure cervical cells and reduce test accuracy.
• Use of vaginal medications, douches, or contraceptive creams within 48 hours can affect cellular appearance.
• Recent cervical procedures or biopsies may alter normal cellular patterns.
• Inadequate sample collection due to insufficient cells can lead to inconclusive results.
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause may affect cell appearance.

How Is a Pap Smear Test Done?

The Pap smear test procedure is straightforward and typically takes just a few minutes to complete:

• You will lie on an examination table with your feet in stirrups, similar to a routine gynaecological exam.
• Your doctor will gently insert a speculum into your vagina to visualise the cervix clearly.
• A small, soft brush or spatula is used to gently collect cells from the cervical surface.
• The collected cells are placed on a glass slide or in a liquid medium for laboratory analysis.
• The speculum is carefully removed, and you can dress immediately after the procedure.
• The entire procedure usually takes 2-3 minutes and may cause mild discomfort, but shouldn't be painful.

How Should You Prepare for a Pap Smear Test?

Proper preparation helps ensure accurate test results and your comfort during the procedure:

• No fasting required, and you can eat and drink normally before the test
• Avoid sexual intercourse for 48 hours before your appointment.
• Skip douches or vaginal washes for at least 48 hours before testing.
• Avoid tampons and use sanitary pads instead during the 48 hours before the test.
• Skip vaginal medications, including creams, suppositories, or other treatments, for 48 hours.
• Schedule appropriately, as it is best performed 10-20 days after your last menstrual period.
• Wear comfortable clothing such as a two-piece outfit for easier undressing.

Diseases that a Pap Smear Test Can Help Detect

The Pap smear test serves as an important screening tool for several cervical and reproductive health conditions:

• Cervical cancer: Primary screening method for detecting malignant cervical cells
• Precancerous lesions: Identify abnormal cells before they become cancerous.
• Cervical dysplasia: Detects abnormal cellular changes in cervical tissue
• HPV infections: Can identify cellular changes caused by high-risk HPV strains
• Cervical inflammation: Reveals inflammatory conditions affecting cervical health
• Certain vaginal infections: May detect some bacterial or fungal infections

Pap Smear Tests/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

Metropolis Healthcare offers comprehensive cervical screening options to meet your specific healthcare needs:

Pap Smear Test Prices in Different Cities

The cost of a Pap smear test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities: