How to detect early signs of cervical cancer?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists suggests the following:

• Those younger than 21 do not need to get Pap smears
• Those aged 21 to 29 should get a Pap smear every three years
• Those aged 30 to 65 should get a Pap smear every three years, or a Pap smear plus an HPV test every five years.
• Those older than 65 can stop Pap smear tests only if they’ve had positive test results for several years

Here are a few guidelines to bear in mind with respect to getting a Pap smear test:

• Avoid during the menstrual cycle: Blood cells that are shed during your period may affect the accuracy of the test result. Therefore, remember to take an appointment 2 weeks after the start of your period.
• Be relaxed and speak up if you feel pain: You may feel some discomfort or pain during the pap test process. Try to relax when the speculum is inserted, but if you feel pain, inform your doctor or nurse immediately. 
• Get tested every three years: It is very important to get a pap smear every three years even if you have been vaccinated. Vaccines do not protect against all cancer-causing HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) sub-types, and about 30 percent of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV.
• Risk of cervical cancer increases with age: Women who have had sexual intercourse and have never had a Pap smear should get screened despite their age, as it internally helps in tracking your health.
• Make it a habit: Even if you feel healthy and do not experience its symptoms, make it a habit to get a pap smear once every 3 years to identify changes in the cervix before abnormal cervical cells become cancerous. 
• Regular pap smears reduce the risk of cervical cancer. However, if you do develop the disease, the chances of curing it if detected early are high. While the Pap smear might be a bit uncomfortable, it only lasts a few minutes, which can save your life.

Article by Dr. Dimpy Irani, Hon Gynecologist and Obstetrician, Saifee Hospital

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