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Pap Smear Test

A reliable screening test that detects cell changes in the cervix at an early stage.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Pap Smear Test?

The Pap smear, developed in the 1940s by Georgios Papanikolaou, revolutionized mass screening for cervical cancer. Cells taken from the cervix with a thin brush are spread on a slide or examined in a pathology laboratory using the liquid-based cytology method.

Today, the Pap smear is combined with a high-risk HPV test (co-test). This combination provides a much higher negative predictive value than Pap smear alone.

According to the recommendations of the Turkish Cancer Society and the Turkish Gynecological Oncology Association, women between 21-65 years of age should have a Pap smear every 3 years or a co-test (Pap smear + HPV) every 5 years.

Symptoms

The test is for routine screening, no specific symptom is required
Can be requested for expedited evaluation in the presence of abnormal vaginal bleeding
Pap smear is essentially a screening tool for asymptomatic women
Used in investigation of postcoital bleeding (bleeding after intercourse)
A complementary component of the routine pelvic examination

Risk Factors

Not having regular screening is the biggest risk
History of HPV infection
Being immunosuppressed
Smoking
Multiple sexual partners
Family history of cervical cancer

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • For the first Pap smear when turning 21
  • If no Pap smear has been done in the last 3 years
  • If the previous result was abnormal or inadequate sample
  • When bleeding after intercourse begins
  • For follow-up after HPV positivity is detected

Treatment Methods

01
Normal result: Continue screening at the recommended frequency
02
ASC-US (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance): HPV test or repeat smear in 6-12 months
03
HSIL (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion): Colposcopy and biopsy
04
CIN 2-3: LEEP, conization, or laser ablation
05
Repeat co-test after 1 year in HPV positivity
06
Regular colposcopy and smear follow-up program after treatment

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.