By the size, shape, number and location of cells, background, precancerous and cancerous diseases of the cervix are diagnosed.
A smear for cytology from the vagina (Pap smear, Pap test, smear for atypical cells) is a laboratory microscopic examination to detect abnormalities in the cells of the cervix.
What does a smear show for cytology?
In a cytological smear, the size, shape, number and nature of the location of cells are assessed, which makes it possible to diagnose background, precancerous and cancerous diseases of the cervix.
What are the indications for taking a smear for cytology?
This analysis is prescribed to all women from 18 years of age once a year, as well as for:
planning pregnancy;
infertility;
violation of the menstrual cycle;
genital herpes;
obesity;
human papillomavirus;
taking hormonal contraceptives;
a large number of sexual partners.
before setting the intrauterine device;
How to prepare for the study?
Before visiting a gynecologist for tests, you should:
refrain from sexual intercourse for 1-2 days;
do not use vaginal preparations (creams, suppositories, lubricants) and do not douche for 2 days;
before taking a smear for cytology, it is recommended not to urinate for 2-3 hours;
it is not recommended to take a smear for cytology in the presence of symptoms such as itching and vaginal discharge.
It is advisable to take a smear for cytology immediately after menstruation, on the 4th-5th day of the cycle.
How is a smear taken for cytology performed?
A smear is taken during a gynecological examination with a special disposable small brush from the outer and inner surfaces of the cervix. The smear procedure is painless and takes 5-10 seconds.
Can there be any discomfort after taking a smear for cytology?
Since during the collection of cells the doctor makes a scraping, then some may have minor spotting spotting from the vagina for 1-2 days.
How many days to prepare a smear for cytology?
1 business day.
How is the cytology smear test assessed?
A smear is considered normal or negative when all cells are of normal size and shape, and abnormal cells are absent.
To describe a smear for cytology, doctors use special terms: dysplasia 1, 2, 3 degrees, atypia. In case of grade 1 dysplasia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dysplasia, it is necessary to repeat the study after 3-6 months.
What to do if abnormal cells are found in a smear for cytology?
In this case, the doctor recommends an additional examination. This can be as simple as repeating the smear test for cytology some time after the first result. Sometimes colposcopy with a biopsy of the cervix is ​​prescribed to clarify the diagnosis, based on the results of which a decision is made on the method of treatment.