Cervical cancer screening is a critical preventive healthcare measure that helps detect the presence of precancerous cells or cancer cells in a woman's cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that extends into the vagina. The most common method of cervical cancer screening is the Pap test, also known as a Pap smear. During a Pap test, a healthcare professional will collect cells from the surface of the cervix and the upper part of the vagina. This is done using a speculum to open the vagina, which allows the healthcare provider to see the cervix clearly. Then, a small sample of cells is taken from the cervix using a spatula or a soft brush. This procedure is generally quick and may cause some discomfort but is not typically painful. In addition to the Pap test, another test called the HPV test (Human Papillomavirus test) can be performed. The HPV test can detect the presence of specific strains of the human papillomavirus, which are known to be the primary cause of cervical cancer. Both tests are essential for effective cervical cancer screening. Women are generally advised to start cervical cancer screening around the age of 21, with the frequency of screenings depending on factors such as age, medical history, and the results of previous screenings. read more >>

A Pap test is commonly used to screen for cervical cancer. A Pap test is a procedure to collect cells from the surface of the cervix and vagina. A piece of cotton, a brush, or a small wooden stick is used to gently scrape cells from the cervix and vagina. ... This procedure is also called a Pap smear.read more >>