What is PAP smear and when and how often is it indicated ?
A speculum examination is done and a scraping taken from the cervix of uterus using a wooden spatula. This is a painless out patient procedure and does not need any anaesthesia. The scrapings from the cervix is smeared on to a glass slide and sent to the pathologist to study. Since the cause of this cancer has its origin in sexual activity, screening should be started from the time sexual activity commences. Screening ang PAP smear examination are recommended once in 3 years in low risk groups and annually in high risk groups. High risk group involves those who have multiple sexual partners , who have AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases.
