PAP Testing
An important screening tool used to determine if there are abnormal cells in the cervix.
Let’s talk about PAPS
Paps are like a backstage pass to your cervical health. Pap testing is used to screen for the presence of abnormal cells in the cervix, which could indicate, or become, cervical cancer.
This tool is like a double-shot of importance, serving two crucial roles!
First, abnormal cells can be treated before they develop into cervical cancer. Second, the chance of survival from cervical cancer is more than 85%, if caught early. Often, cervical cancer does not present with symptoms, which means it could progress without a person realizing it. Symptoms that warrant evaluation for cervical cancer are as follows: abnormal vaginal bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain.
FAQs
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In British Columbia, the current recommendations are women and transgender individuals with a cervix, ages 25-69, should complete a pap test every three years. Naturopathic doctors and medical doctors, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and midwives can complete this test.
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A pap test will be completed in a doctor’s office or medical clinic and does not take much time. The test involves inserting a speculum inside your vagina and then collecting cells from your cervix with a small spatula. You may feel mild discomfort, but it should not feel painful. The collected cells are sent to a laboratory with BC Cancer, and the results will be available within a few weeks.