What is pat smear?

A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that is at the top of the vagina.

The primary purpose of a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Pap%20smear" >Pap smear</a> is to detect precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix. Detecting these abnormal cells early through <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Cervical%20screening" >cervical screening</a> allows for timely treatment and can significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.

During a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Pap%20test" >Pap test</a>, a speculum is inserted into the vagina to visualize the cervix. A small brush or spatula is then used to gently collect cells from the surface of the cervix and the surrounding area. The collected cells are then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

The frequency of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Pap%20smears" >Pap smears</a> depends on age, medical history, and previous test results. Guidelines generally recommend starting regular screening at age 21. Many guidelines now recommend <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/HPV%20testing" >HPV testing</a> along with or instead of Pap smears, particularly for women over 30. The HPV test checks for the presence of the human papillomavirus, a common virus that can cause cervical cancer.

An abnormal <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Pap%20smear%20result" >Pap smear result</a> does not necessarily mean that cancer is present. It simply indicates that further evaluation is needed. Follow-up tests may include a colposcopy, a procedure in which a magnified view of the cervix is examined, and a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken for further analysis.