Cervix cancer screening

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Cervical cancer starts in the cells of the cervix – the opening in the lower part of the womb that connects to the vagina.The main cause of cervical cancer is a long-lasting infection from the human papilloma virus (HPV) passed from one person to another during sex. Cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer found in women in South Africa. The most common warning signs of cervical cancer include:

• Bleeding between menstrual periods, after sex or after menopause when menstrual periods were thought to have stopped
• Discomfort during sex 
• Unusual vaginal discharge with a strong odor and sometimes tinged with blood 
• Pelvic pain

It should be noted that these symptoms can also be caused by other things like an infection. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should consult with a doctor. It is possible to prevent cervical cancer, simply by having regular screening tests. If detected early, cancer of the cervix is one of the most successfully treated cancers.

A PAP test is routinely used to screen for cervical cancer.

Papanicolaou test or smear (Pap smear)

A Pap test or smear is a procedure to collect cells from the surface of the cervix and vagina. A metal speculum is carefully inserted into the vagina and stretched open so that the cervix can be seen. A small cotton bud, brush or wooden spatula is then used to gently scrape a few cells from the cervix. These cells are then viewed under microscope to look for any abnormalities.

The Pap test can be performed at your doctor’s practice, a healthcare clinic and more recently, self-test kits are becoming available. When to start screening for cervical cancer?

The general recommendations are that routine screening for cervical cancer should start in women that are 30 years or older, however earlier screening may be advised if you have become sexually active much earlier and with multiple partners. The risks for developing cervical cancer include being infected with HPV, multiple sexual partners or becoming sexually active early, smoking, a weakened immune system (such as having HIV or Aids) and long-term use of birth control pills. Your doctor and medical scheme can assist to decide on the frequency of screening suitable for you. There will be no additional costs for medical scheme members. 

What are the risks?

Generally, these are safe procedures. However, problems may occur, including:

• Mild discomfort during the procedure 
• The results being misinterpreted 
• The need to repeat the test or other investigations 
• Discomfort and embarrassment during the procedure

What happens after the procedure? 

• You may resume your normal activities. 
• It is up to you to get the results of your procedure from your doctor. 
• Ask your healthcare provider when your results would be ready This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your healthcare provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your healthcare provider.