What is a Smear Test? Why is it Important and How is it Done?

A smear test is a screening test performed to detect cervical cancer and other cellular abnormalities in women at an early stage. This test, which is extremely important for women's health, determines whether there are any changes in the cells in the cervix (cervix). Early diagnosis increases the success rate in the treatment of serious diseases such as cancer.

 

What is a Smear Test?

A smear test is a screening test performed to detect cellular changes in the cervix (cervix). This test helps diagnose cervical cancer in the early stages and allows early treatment. The smear test is also known as the Pap smear and is a screening method that women should have regularly.

In this test, a cell sample is taken from the cervix and examined under a microscope. If an abnormal condition is detected in the cells, additional tests are performed and the necessary treatment plan is created.

Why is a Smear Test Performed?

A smear test is performed specifically to reduce the risk of cervical cancer and to detect this disease in the early stages. Cervical cancer can often progress without showing any symptoms. Therefore, a smear test helps detect cancer in the early stages. It can also be used to detect sexually transmitted infections such as HPV.

The following are the situations in which a smear test is performed:

• To diagnose cervical cancer early
• To detect cellular changes
• To investigate the presence of HPV infection
• To perform regular sexual health screening

Early diagnosis allows the disease to be treated before it progresses and greatly reduces the risk of cancer spreading throughout the body.

How is a Smear Test Performed?

A smear test is a simple and painless procedure performed during a gynecological examination of women. The test usually takes 10-15 minutes and consists of the following steps:

Smear Test Steps:

1. Patient Preparation: The patient is laid on a gynecological examination table and the legs are placed on special supports.
2. Inserting a Speculum: The gynecologist uses a tool called a speculum to open the vagina and see the cervix.
3. Taking a Cell Sample: A cell sample is taken from the cervix using a special brush. During this procedure, the patient may feel slight pressure, but it is usually not painful.
4. Examination of Cells: The cell sample taken is sent to the laboratory and examined under a microscope.

This procedure is simple and quick. However, some women may feel slight discomfort or pressure during the procedure.

Who is a Smear Test Performed for?

A smear test is a screening test recommended at regular intervals for sexually active women starting at the age of 21. The test is usually done every 3 years, but your doctor may recommend more frequent testing depending on risk factors.

Appropriate Age Range for Smear Test:

• 21-29 years: A smear test is recommended every 3 years.
• 30-65 years: A smear test can be done together with or without an HPV test. A smear test is recommended together with an HPV test every 5 years.

Your doctor may reduce the frequency of the test after the age of 65, as the risk of cervical cancer decreases.

When Should a Smear Test Be Done?

A smear test should be done outside of the menstrual cycle. Cell samples taken during menstruation may not give accurate results, so it is recommended to test approximately 1 week after the menstrual period ends.

Things to Consider Before a Smear Test:

• Not during menstruation: In order for the test to give accurate results, a time when there is no menstrual bleeding should be chosen.
• Avoiding intercourse: It is recommended not to have sexual intercourse 48 hours before the test.
• Not using vaginal products: Vaginal douche, cream or other products should not be used 48 hours before the test.

These precautions ensure that the smear test gives accurate results.

Smear Test Results

Smear test results are usually reported in two ways: normal and abnormal. A normal result means that there are no abnormalities in the cells and that the cervixindicates that the patient is healthy. An abnormal result indicates that there are some changes in the cells and that further tests should be performed.

Normal Result:

• Indicates that there is no problem in the cervix cells.
• A repeat test is recommended after 3 years.

Abnormal Result:

• Indicates that there are changes in the cells.
• Abnormal results do not necessarily indicate cancer, but require additional tests.

In the event of abnormal results, further tests such as HPV test or biopsy may be applied.

Abnormal Smear Test Results

Abnormal smear test results are classified according to the level of cellular changes. These changes are most often caused by HPV infection.

Abnormal Results:

• ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells): In this case, some minor abnormalities are seen in the cells but do not indicate cancer.
• LSIL (Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions): Mild cellular changes are present. These lesions are usually associated with HPV infection.
• HSIL (High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions): Cellular changes are more serious and carry the risk of developing into cancer.

If an abnormal result is received, your doctor may recommend further testing and follow-up.

HPV and Smear Test Relationship

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is one of the most common causes of cervical cancer. Smear test is used to detect cellular changes caused by HPV infection. Especially high-risk HPV types increase the risk of cervical cancer.

HPV's Effect on Smear Test Results:

• Cellular changes are more common in people with HPV infection.
• HPV test can be applied in addition to smear test and the presence of HPV can be detected.

Smear Test and HPV Vaccine

HPV vaccine is the most effective way to protect against infections caused by HPV. The vaccine significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer. However, people who have been vaccinated with HPV should also have regular smear tests. Because the vaccine does not provide complete protection against every type of HPV.

Smear Test for People Who Have Been Vaccinated with HPV:

• It is important to have a smear test even if you have been vaccinated with HPV.
• The vaccine provides protection against the most common types of HPV, but it does not always provide complete protection.

Side Effects of a Smear Test

A smear test is generally a safe and painless procedure. However, some women may experience mild discomfort after the procedure.

Possible Side Effects After a Smear Test:

• There may be slight bleeding or spotting.
• A slight feeling of pressure may be felt during the procedure.
• In rare cases, there is a risk of infection.

These side effects are usually short-term and go away on their own within a few days. If the pain or bleeding persists, you should consult your doctor.

Things to Consider Before a Smear Test

There are some points to consider before having the test done in order for the smear test to yield accurate results.

Preparation Before a Smear Test:

• Not during menstruation: Choosing a time outside of menstruation is important for the test to yield accurate results.
• Postponing intercourse: Sexual intercourse should be avoided 48 hours before the test.
• Not using vaginal douche or cream: Vaginal products should be avoided 48 hours before the test.

These preparations will help the test to yield healthier results. provides.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does a smear test hurt?

A smear test is usually a painless procedure. There may only be a slight pressure, but this passes in a short time.

2. When should a smear test be done?

It is recommended to do it 3-5 days after the end of your period, outside of your menstrual period.

3. When do you get the smear test results?

Smear test results are usually available within 1-2 weeks. Your doctor will inform you about the results.

4. Can HPV be detected with a smear test?

A smear test can detect cellular changes caused by HPV. However, HPV DNA testing can be performed to directly detect HPV infection.

5. Is bleeding after a smear test normal?

Light bleeding or spotting is common after a smear test and usually goes away within a few days.

6. Can cancer be diagnosed with a smear test?

A smear test helps diagnose cancer at an early stage.In case of abnormal results, additional tests are performed.