Pap Smear Procedures: What to Expect and Why They Matter

What is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear (also known as a Pap test) is a screening procedure proven to significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally. 

Statistics show that over the last three decades in the US, the introduction of Pap smears has reduced cervical cancer cases by up to 492,000 compared with pre-screening rates.

The procedure is quick, simple, and well-practised worldwide – a process where your healthcare provider gently collects a small sample of cells from your cervix.

This sample is then sent to a lab where experts examine it for any changes that could indicate precancerous conditions or cervical cancer.

Think of it as a proactive check-up for your cervix. By detecting changes early, treatment can often prevent the development of cervical cancer altogether.

Why Pap Smear Tests Are Important?

As with most aspects of healthcare, prevention is key. The earlier you can find signs of cervical cancer or other precancerous conditions, the sooner you can undergo treatment and the more successful these treatments can be.

Quite simply, statistics show that if cervical cancer is detected during the early stages, the five-year survival rate is an impressive 91%. If cervical cancer is found later and has spread to surrounding tissue or organs, the five-year rate drops to 59%.

As of the latest figures, around 44% of women are diagnosed during early stages, which means there’s a lot of work to be done in conducting Pap smears and identifying the cases earlier.

What Conditions Can Pap Smears Detect?

Beyond cancer detection, your Pap smear also helps your doctor keep an eye on your overall cervical health, looking for conditions that include:

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Some Pap smears can detect HPV, the virus responsible for most cervical cancers. Identifying high-risk HPV types can help assess a woman’s risk of developing cervical cancer.
• Precancerous Cells: The test can identify atypical cells or dysplasia, which are changes in the cervical cells that could potentially turn into cancer if not treated properly.
• Infections and Inflammation: Although not its primary function, the test can sometimes detect infections and inflammation, such as trichomoniasis or yeast infections.

Who Should Get a Pap Smear?

Generally, all women and people with a cervix are recommended to start getting Pap smears at age 21.

After that, having one every three years is often sufficient. However, your individual needs may vary. Here’s why it’s important to talk to your doctor:

• Risk Factors: Certain factors, like a history of abnormal Pap results or certain health conditions, might mean you need more frequent screenings.
• Age: The recommended frequency of Pap smears may change as you get older.
• Individual Concerns: Your doctor can give you the best advice based on your personal health history and any concerns you might have.

Note: A Pap smear is one of the most important preventive screenings for women, especially for early detection of cervical changes. For long-term health planning, your doctor may also recommend additional screenings based on your age, risks, and lifestyle.

Want to know what other screenings women should prioritise? The article on 8 Essential Health Screening Tests for Women explains all the details you need!

What to Expect During the Procedure

Pap smears are so refined at this point that they’re simple and quick. Here’s a breakdown of what happens during your Pap smear:

1. Getting Ready: You’ll lie on an exam table, placing your feet in stirrups. Your healthcare provider may ask you to slide down so your bottom is at the table’s edge.
2. Inserting the Speculum: Your provider will insert a lubricated speculum gently (a smooth plastic or metal instrument) into your vagina. This helps them see your cervix clearly.
3. Collecting the Sample: They’ll use a small brush or spatula to collect a sample of cells from your cervix. You might feel a bit of pressure, but it’s usually quick and not painful.

The whole procedure typically takes just a few minutes. Let your healthcare provider know if you have any questions or feel uncomfortable at any time.

Understanding Your Pap Smear Results: Normal vs Abnormal Results

Normal Results

Pap smear results typically take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. If everything comes back to normal, you’ll usually get this result back within about seven days.

A normal result means:

• No concerning cell changes were found
• You can follow your doctor’s recommendation for your next screening

Abnormal Results

If your results are abnormal, try not to worry too much. This doesn’t automatically mean you have cancer. 

It usually means:

• Some cell changes need closer attention.
• Your sample will be sent to a lab for further testing (may take up to three weeks)

From here, your doctor might recommend a colposcopy, a procedure where they use a magnifying device to look at your cervix in more detail. 

They may also suggest an HPV test to check for high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause cervical changes. Your doctor will discuss the best course of action based on your specific results. 

What if Your Results Are Positive?

A positive Pap smear result can feel overwhelming, but remember: early detection is your best weapon, so, all things considered, this is the best place to be. 

Here’s your action plan:

1. Get Clarity
   Ask your doctor to clearly explain what your specific results mean. It might be abnormal cells or HPV, not necessarily cancer.
2. Complete Recommended Follow-Up
   Your doctor might recommend an HPV test or colposcopy (a closer look at your cervix) to get a clearer picture. Schedule these promptly.
3. Review Your Treatment Options
   Depending on those follow-up results, you may need treatment or simply closer monitoring. Discuss the best plan for you with your doctor.
4. Plan for Prevention Going Forward
   Ask about preventing future issues and when you’ll need your next Pap or HPV test.
5. Get Support if Needed
   This can be stressful! Consider support groups or counselling to help you cope.
6. Empower Yourself with Knowledge
   Knowledge is power. Research cervical health and HPV to feel more in control.
7. Strengthen Your Lifestyle Habits
   Quitting smoking and eating healthy can help. Ask your doctor for advice.

Note: If you’ve recently received a positive result and need guidance, Island Hospital’s gynaecology specialists can walk you through your options and providethe assistance you need.

When Can You Stop Pap Smear Screening?

You can typically stop getting Pap smears around age 65 if you’ve had several recent normal results.

Your doctor might also recommend stopping if you’ve had a hysterectomy where your cervix was removed (as long as it wasn’t due to cancer).

Note: Always talk to your doctor for personalised advice. They’ll consider your specific health history and help you make the best decision.

Risks, Side Effects & Preparation Tips

After a Pap smear, you may have some light bleeding or spotting, which is normal. You may also experience mild cramping for a day or two. 

Good news: Pap smears are safe. You might feel slight discomfort, but serious risks are rare. 

Here’s how to get ready:

• Timing: Schedule when you’re not on your period.
• Avoid for a few days beforehand: Sex, douching, vaginal medicines, creams, or spermicides – these can interfere with results.

That’s it! Your doctor might have other instructions, so always check with them.

Take Proactive Action for Your Reproductive Health Today!

Think of your Pap smear as an investment in your health. By making it a regular part of your routine, you’re taking charge and catching potential issues early.

At Island Hospital, our experienced gynaecologists provide dedicated care for women of all ages, from routine screening to further evaluation when needed. You will receive clear guidance, personalised advice, and proper follow-up for any concerns that arise.

We also offer comprehensive health screening packages designed to support women’s long-term wellness. 

Our commitment to excellence has earned us local and worldwide recognition:

• A finalist for Malaysia’s Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital Programme 
• A place on Newsweek’s lists of World’s Best Hospitals 2025

Book your Pap smear appointment with our specialist team today and stay ahead of potential risks.

FAQ

Is a Pap Smear Painful?

It might feel a bit awkward, but it should never be seriously painful. Think of it as a quick pressure check, not a pain test. You might feel a bit of discomfort when the speculum is inserted and during the cell collection, but it’s usually over quickly.

Consult your doctor if you feel worried. They can give you tips to make the experience easier.

When Should a Woman Get a Pap Smear?

Every woman should start getting Pap smears at age 21, even if they hasn’t had sex. If your results are normal, you’ll typically need a Pap smear every three years from age 21 to 29. From ages 30 to 65, you have options.

You can get a Pap smear plus an HPV test every 5 years, or just a Pap smear every 3 years.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Your doctor might recommend a different screening schedule based on your specific health history, so always ask for their personalised advice.

What Happens if You Never Get a Pap Smear?

Skipping regular Pap smears significantly increases your risk of cervical cancer going undetected.

Since early cervical cancer often has no symptoms, Pap smears are crucial for catching it early. Early detection is key to successful treatment. The later cancer is found, the more complex and potentially less effective the treatment may become.

Pap smears also detect precancerous cells, which can be treated to prevent cervical cancer altogether. Regular screenings are an important step in safeguarding your overall health.