September 19, 2022 Author : João Casanova This test owes its name to the Greek physician Georgios Papanicolau, who developed it and publicized its usefulness in the first half of the 20th century. The Pap test looks for suspicious cells, that is, cells that have changes that may be related to cervical cancer. The changes detected can be characteristic of cancer cells and of precancerous cells and can be identified before any other signs or symptoms occur. The goal of cervical cytology is to diagnose cervical cancer as early as possible , so that the probability of a successful treatment is as high as possible. How is a Pap test done? To do this test, a tissue sample is taken from the inner surface of the cervix . This procedure is usually performed by a gynecologist during the gynecological examination performed in consultation; A vaginal speculum is placed to facilitate access and visualization of the cervix and a specific instrument is used to collect the sample; This is a simple and quick procedure, which may cause a slight and transient discomfort, but does not cause pain and is well tolerated. The cervical tissue sample thus obtained is then sent to a pathology laboratory , prepared properly and analyzed under a microscope to check for cell changes. Is there a special preparation to perform a Pap test? This exam does not require specific preparation. It is usually done outside the menstrual period , such as routine gynecology follow up consultation, for hygiene reasons and better visualization during the gynecological exam. However, cervical tissue sample for cervical cytology can also be obtained during menstruation. How often is the Pap test performed? The ideal frequency of a Pap smear depends on whether or not other cervical cancer screening tests are performed , such as the HPV (human papilloma virus) test. Most cases of cervical cancer are due to HPV. Thus, for each woman, the gynecologist advises on the most appropriate screening for cervical cancer. When other screening tests are not performed, Pap test is performed, in general, every 3 years from the age of 21, throughout the childbearing age and after menopause, except in women who for some reason underwent a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus). Uterus and cervix The uterus is a hollow organ that is part of the female reproductive system. It is inside it that the fetus develops during pregnancy; It is located between the bladder (in the front) and the rectum (in the back) and is triangular in shape; Anatomically it is divided into 4 parts: the neck or cervix, the isthmus, the body and the fundus. The cervix is the lower region of the uterus. It is a narrow area, with a length of about 2.5 cm; In connects the uterus to the vagina; Under normal circumstances, it remains closed, protecting the uterine cavity and the fetus during pregnancy. Meet the obstetrics-gynecology clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
