Cervical Screening & Colposcopy

Cervical Screening Test

What is a Cervical Screening Test?

The cervical screening test, previously known as Pap smear, checks for changes in the cells of your cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina (birth canal). They can indicate if you have an infection, abnormal (unhealthy) cervical cells, or cervical cancer.

During cervical screening, Dr Mariud takes a sample of cells from your cervix to be tested and examined. A cervical screening test is safe with no known medical risks.

Why is a Cervical Screening  Test Performed?

A cervical screening test can save your life. Cervical screening tests can

●     find the earliest signs of cervical cancer

●     detect infections

If diagnosed early, the chance of curing cervical cancer is very high, as treatments can prevent most cases of cervical cancer from developing.

Getting regular cervical screening tests is the best thing you can do to prevent cervical cancer. Regular cervical screening tests have led to a major decline in the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths.

Do All Women Need cervical screening Tests?

Women aged between 25-74 who have ever been sexually active are recommended to have a cervical Screening Test every 5 years.

Women aged 70 can talk to their doctor about stopping after they have had at least 2 normal Cervical Screening Tests and no abnormal results in the last 10 years.

How to Prepare for a Cervical Screening Test?

Many factors can invalidate test results by washing away or hiding abnormal cervix cells. So Dr Mariud suggests that for 2 days before the test, you avoid the:

  • Douching

  • Using tampons

  • Using vaginal creams, suppositories, and medicines

  • Using vaginal deodorant sprays or powders

  • Having sex

Make sure to empty your bladder just before your examination. Dr Mariud suggests scheduling a cervical screening test when you do not have your period. The best time to be tested is 10 to 20 days after the first day of your last period.

How is a Cervical Screening Test Done?

Dr Mariud can do a Cervical Screening during a pelvic examination. It is a simple and quick test. While you lie on an examination table, Dr Mariud inserts an instrument called a speculum to see the cervix. When Dr Mariud performs the procedure, the areas being examined are lumps, sores, inflammation, or other abnormalities of the external genitalia. A small disposable swab or soft-bristled “broom” is used to remove cells from the entrance to the canal that connects the cervix with the uterus.

While usually painless, a Cervical Screening test is uncomfortable for some women.

What do Abnormal cervical Screening test Results Mean?

Abnormal test results usually do not mean you have cancer. Most often, there is a small problem with the cervix. It is not a diagnostic test but a screening tool to detect abnormal cells in the cervix. Some abnormal cells will turn into cancer if left untreated for a long period, but early cell changes can revert to normal in most cases.

By treating these unhealthy cells, almost all cases of cervical cancer can be prevented. If you have abnormal results, consult Dr Mariud about their meaning.

Although every effort is made to educate you on cervical screening and take control, specific information will not be discussed. Talk to Dr Mariud about any concerns you have about the cervical screening test.

Causes of Abnormal Cervical Screening Test

An abnormal result may indicate any of the following:

  • Dysplasia (abnormal cells that may be precancerous)

  • Atrophy or vaginal dryness, especially after menopause

  • An infection or an inflammation

  • Herpes

  • Trichomoniasis

  • Recent sexual activity

  • HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection

Symptoms Associated with Abnormal Cervical ScreeningResults

Usually, abnormal cells do not produce any symptoms. Even the presence of HPV in an abnormal cervical screening test is asymptomatic. Therefore, a regular screening test is beneficial in the early detection of any abnormalities.

Abnormal results secondary to a sexually transmitted infection may induce the following symptoms:

  • Abnormal discharge from the vagina, such as a change in the amount, colour, odour or texture

  • Abnormal sensations such as pain, burning, or itching in the pelvic or genital area during urination or sex

  • Sores, lumps, blisters, rashes or warts on or around the genitals

Colposcopy

What is Colonoscopy?

Colposcopy is a procedure in which a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope is used to look into the vagina and the cervix. The colposcope gives an enlarged view of the outer portion of the cervix.

Why Would a Colposcopy Be Necessary?

Colposcopy is performed when abnormal changes are seen in the cells of the cervix, as seen on a Cervical Screening test. It may also be done to assess problems such as genital warts, inflammation of the cervix, benign growths or polyps, pain, and bleeding.

How is the Colposcopy Procedure Done?

A colposcopy takes a few minutes to perform. Dr Mariud uses a special microscope to examine the surface of the cervix for abnormality.

A mild solution may be applied to the vagina and cervix with a cotton swab. This allows abnormal areas to be seen easily.  Dr Mariud will look inside the vagina and cervix to locate any problems. If there are any abnormalities, Dr Mariud may take a small tissue sample called a biopsy.

You may feel a mild pinch or cramp while taking the biopsy sample. The tissue is then sent to a laboratory for further study.

What to Expect After the Colposcopy Procedure?

Dr Mariud will discuss any problems detected during colposcopy with you. The laboratory results should be ready in two weeks if a tissue sample is taken from your cervix (biopsy).

Most women feel fine after colposcopy. You may feel a little lightheaded, and if you have had a biopsy, you may have some mild bleeding. Talk to Dr Mariud about how to take care of yourself after the procedure and when you need to return for a check-up.

What are the Risks of Colposcopy?

There may be a risk of infection when you have a colposcopy. Mild pain and cramping during the procedure and mild bleeding afterwards are common. This most often happens when a biopsy is done. If there is heavy bleeding, fever, or severe pain after the procedure, contact Dr Mariud immediately.

How is an Abnormal Cervical Screening Treated?

If the colposcopy results reveal a high-grade abnormality (CIN II or III), an LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) is performed. Dr Mariud will perform this as a Day-Stay procedure. It involves removing the abnormal cells from the tip of the cervix.

A cone biopsy is performed depending on the type and depth of the lesion.

This specimen is sent for histopathological examination. Complications are uncommon and include infection and bleeding. Most women will experience brown vaginal loss for about three weeks. It is advised that you avoid swimming, intercourse, baths and the use of tampons for this time to minimise the risk of infection.

Abnormal Cervical Screening During Pregnancy

A cervical screening during pregnancy is very safe. In case of an abnormal cervical screening, a colposcopy can be performed during pregnancy. However, further treatments are delayed until the baby is born.

What to Expect After a Cervical Screening Test

  • Mild Discomfort or Cramping: It’s normal to feel mild cramping, similar to menstrual cramps, for a few hours following the test. This is due to the gentle scraping of cervical cells during the procedure.

  • Light Spotting or Discharge: Minor spotting or light bleeding is common after a cervical screening, especially if it’s your first time or your cervix is more sensitive. The spotting should resolve within a day or two.

  • Emotional Sensitivity: Some people feel emotionally sensitive after a cervical screening, especially if it is uncomfortable or causes anxiety. Taking time to relax afterwards can help.

Tips for Managing Symptoms

  • Take It Easy: If you're experiencing cramping or spotting, avoid intense physical activities, heavy lifting, or strenuous exercise for a day or two.

  • Use Pads Instead of Tampons: If you have light spotting, opt for a pad rather than a tampon, as tampons can increase the risk of infection shortly after a cervical screening.

  • Stay Hydrated and Rest: Drinking water and allowing your body to rest can help you recover more quickly, especially if the procedure leaves you feeling tired or tense.

  • Over-the-counter Pain Relief: If cramping is bothersome, consult with your healthcare provider before taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen.

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