The cervical smear or Pap test is a screening test that has been successful at detecting the precursors of cervical cancer. It was introduced 50 years ago and has remained largely unchanged since then.
Why Should I Have a Cervical Smear?
Regular cervical smears help prevent abnormalities developing in the cervix. You can have mild abnormalities in your cervix without experiencing symptoms or pain. If not treated, even minor abnormalities in cells can progress.
How is the Cervical Smear Test Done?
The smear taker gently scrapes cells from your uterine cervix, smears the cells onto a glass slide, and sends the slide to a laboratory for microscopic review.
Is there Room for Improvement for the Cervical Smear?
Yes. The smearing action can cause uneven layering, crowding and overlapping of cells, making it difficult to see some of the cells. In addition, studies have demonstrated that the majority of cells may not transfer to the slide and could be discarded along with the sampling device.
How is the Thin Prep Pap Test Different?
The cells are still collected in the same way; there is no additional discomfort. Now, instead of smearing onto a glass slide, the cells are rinsed into a vial filled with a preservative solution. This procedure ensures that the cells are more readily released into the liquid, capturing virtually all of the cells.
Is There Proof the Thin Prep Pap Test Is More Effective?
The Thin Prep Pap Test was developed to address many of the inherent pitfalls associated with the conventional Pap smear. Studies around the world have proven the Thin Prep Pap test to be more accurate than the conventional cervical smear.
What if My Results Are Abnormal?
Abnormal test results do not mean that you have cancer! They are often caused by an inflammation or an infection in your cervix or vagina. When abnormal results are obtained, your doctor can follow up immediately with whatever treatment is best for you. Ask your doctor or nurse to explain the results to you and what will happen next.
Who should have a Cervical Smear?
All women who have ever been sexually active need to have a regular test. Even if you are not sexually active now or no longer have periods, you still need regular cervical smears.
Why Should I Ask for a Thin Prep Pap Test?
The Thin Prep Pap Test is the first real improvement to the Pap smear since it was introduced 50 years ago. This new test gives a new level of confidence in the reliability of your results. Be in control of your body and ask your doctor for a Thin Prep Pap test today.
How Much Will it Cost?
The test costs just £45
How Long will I have to Wait for the Results?
Results are usually available within 48 - 72 hours from receipt of specimens
