Cervical cancer is a serious disease, but one that’s often preventable with the right care. While a cancer diagnosis can be scary, the good news is that we have powerful tools to detect and prevent cervical cancer: the Pap test and the HPV test. Many women are unsure about the differences between these screenings and when they need them. This blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about cervical cancer screening. We’ll break down each test, explain what it looks for, and help you understand which screening is recommended for you based on your age and health history.
The Pap Test
The Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, has been around for decades and is a cornerstone of cervical cancer prevention. It looks for abnormal changes in the cells of your cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. If left untreated, these abnormal cells (precancers) can sometimes develop into cervical cancer.
Here’s how it works:
- Collecting the Cells: During a gynecological exam, a doctor or nurse will gently collect a sample of cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula.
- Off to the Lab: A lab technician examines the sample under a microscope.
Looking for Clues: Lab technicians carefully analyze the cells, looking for any abnormalities in their shape, size, and arrangement. These abnormal cells, known as precancerous cells, may indicate an increased risk of developing cervical cancer.
The HPV Test
The human papillomavirus (HPV) test is a more recent addition to cervical cancer screening. HPV is a common virus that can be spread through sexual contact. While most HPV infections clear up on their own, certain types of HPV can cause cervical cancer.
The HPV test is very similar to the Pap test in terms of cell collection:
- Familiar Procedure: A doctor will collect a sample of cells from the cervix, often at the same time as your Pap test.
- Detecting the Virus: Lab technicians analyze the sample to determine if high-risk types of HPV are present.
Why Two Tests?
You might be wondering why we need two different tests. The answer lies in how cervical cancer develops.
- HPV infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer. However, not everyone infected with high-risk HPV will develop cancer.
- The Pap test helps identify cell changes that may be caused by HPV, even if the virus itself is no longer detectable.
By using these tests together or in sequence, healthcare providers can get a more complete picture of your cervical health and determine the most appropriate follow-up care.
Who Needs to be Screened and When?
Screening recommendations can vary slightly depending on individual risk factors and medical history. Here are the current recommendations from the American Cancer Society:
Women aged 25-65: Should have a primary HPV test every 5 years. If a primary HPV test is not available, a co-test (Pap test and HPV test together) every 5 years or a Pap test alone every 3 years is acceptable.
Women over 65: May stop screening if they have had adequate prior screening and are not at high risk for cervical cancer.
Women with certain risk factors: May need more frequent screening or screening outside the regular age range. Talk to your doctor about your individual needs.
What if My Test Results are Abnormal?
An abnormal Pap test result doesn’t necessarily mean you have cervical cancer. It could indicate inflammation, an infection, or the presence of abnormal cells that may or may not develop into cancer. Your doctor may recommend further testing, such as:
Colposcopy: A procedure to examine the cervix more closely using a special magnifying device.
Biopsy: A healthcare provider takes a small tissue sample from the cervix for examination under a microscope.
If a healthcare provider finds abnormal cells, treatment can often prevent them from turning into cancer.
Schedule Your Cervical Cancer Screening
Taking charge of your health includes staying informed about cervical cancer screening. We’ve equipped you with the knowledge you need to understand the different tests and guidelines. Now, it’s time to take the next step! Talk to your doctor about which screening is right for you, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our Women’s Health team if you need a provider. We’re dedicated to supporting you on your wellness journey.
Resources:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/screening-tests.html
Disclaimer:
The Comanche County Memorial Hospital website does not provide specific medical advice for individual cases. Comanche County Memorial Hospital does not endorse any services obtained through information provided on this site, articles on the site or any links on this site.
Use of the information obtained by the Comanche County Memorial Hospital website does not replace medical advice given by a qualified medical provider to meet the medical needs of our readers or others.
While content is frequently updated, medical information changes quickly. Information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies or typographical errors. For questions or concerns, please contact us at contact@ccmhhealth.com.