Pap Smear & HPV Test: Why Every Woman Should Get Screened

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers affecting women, yet it continues to impact thousands of lives each year largely due to lack of regular screening. Simple, quick, and widely available tests like the Pap smear and HPV test can detect early changes in cervical cells long before cancer develops.

We at Dr. MAM Ramaswamy Cancer Institute - A unit of Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital,  strongly advocate routine cervical cancer screening as a vital step toward lifelong women’s health. This article explains what Pap smear and HPV testing are, who should get screened, how often tests are needed, and why early detection saves lives.

What Is a Pap Smear Test?

A Pap smear (Pap test) is a screening procedure that checks for abnormal or precancerous cells in the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. These abnormal changes are usually caused by persistent infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

How the Pap Smear Works

● A gynecologist gently collects cervical cells using a small brush or spatula

● The sample is examined in a laboratory

● Abnormal cells are identified before they progress into cervical cancer

The Pap smear does not diagnose cancer, but it detects cellular changes early, when treatment is most effective.

What Is an HPV Test?

The HPV test detects the presence of high-risk HPV strains, particularly types 16 and 18, which are responsible for nearly 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide.

Key Features of HPV Testing

● Identifies HPV DNA in cervical cells

● Helps predict future cancer risk

● Often performed along with a Pap smear (co-testing)

While many HPV infections clear on their own, persistent high-risk HPV infection can lead to cervical cancer over time—making HPV testing a powerful preventive tool.

Together, Pap smear and HPV testing provide the most comprehensive cervical cancer screening.

Who Should Get Screened? (Ideal Age Groups)

Women Aged 21–29 Years

● Pap smear every 3 years

● HPV testing only if Pap results are abnormal

Women Aged 30–65 Years

● Pap smear + HPV test every 5 years (preferred)

● OR Pap smear alone every 3 years

Women Above 65 Years

● Screening may stop if:

○ Previous results were consistently normal

○ No history of cervical cancer or severe dysplasia

Women who are sexually active regardless of marital status should follow screening guidelines.

How Often Should You Get Tested?

The frequency of screening depends on age, test type, and prior results:

● Pap smear alone → every 3 years

● HPV test alone → every 5 years

● Co-testing (Pap + HPV) → every 5 years

Women with weakened immunity, previous abnormal results, or a history of cervical cancer may need more frequent screening, as advised by their doctor.

What Happens During the Screening Procedure?

Many women delay screening due to fear or misinformation. In reality, the procedure is:

● Quick (5–10 minutes)

● Safe and non-surgical

● Usually painless (mild discomfort at most)

● Done in an outpatient setting

Preparation Tips

● Avoid intercourse, douching, or vaginal medications 48 hours before the test

● Schedule the test when not menstruating

Why Regular Screening Is So Important

1. Prevents Cervical Cancer

Most cervical cancers take 10–15 years to develop. Screening catches changes early—before cancer forms.

2. Enables Early Treatment

Precancerous lesions can be treated with simple outpatient procedures, avoiding surgery or radiation.

3. Reduces Mortality

Countries with organized screening programs have seen a 70% reduction in cervical cancer deaths.

4. Cost-Effective Prevention

Screening is far more affordable than treating advanced-stage cancer.

Common Myths About Pap Smear & HPV Test

Myth: I don’t have symptoms, so I don’t need screening
 Fact: Early cervical changes cause no symptoms

Myth: HPV means infidelity
 Fact: HPV is extremely common and often dormant for years

Myth: Vaccinated women don’t need screening
 Fact: HPV vaccination does not replace screening

HPV Vaccination & Screening: A Powerful Combination

HPV vaccination protects against major cancer-causing strains, but it does not cover all HPV types. Therefore:

Vaccination + regular Pap smear & HPV testing = best protection against cervical cancer

Your Health Matters

Cervical cancer is largely preventable, and screening saves lives. If you are within the recommended age group, do not delay your Pap smear or HPV test.

Early detection is not just treatment, it is protection.

Why Choose Dr. MAM Ramaswamy Cancer Institute - A unit of Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital?

At Dr. MAM Ramaswamy Cancer Institute - A unit of Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, we offer:

● Expert gynecologic oncology care

● NABH-standard diagnostic protocols

● Advanced pathology and HPV testing

● Compassionate, women-centric care

● Early detection and preventive oncology services

Our mission is to eliminate preventable cancers through awareness, screening, and early intervention.

Contact Us

Dr. MAM Ramaswamy Cancer Institute

Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital
Chettinad Health City, Kelambakkam, Chennai – 603103

Call: +91-90944 81000

Whatsapp: +91 90944 81000

Website: www.chettinadhospital.com
Email: cssh@chettinadhospitals.com