Pap Test

What You Need To Know About Pap Tests

What Is a Pap Test?

A Pap Test (also known as a Pap Smear) is a test that may help prevent cervical cancer. The two-minute procedure involves collecting cells from the cervix, which can detect cell changes that, if left untreated for several years, could eventually turn cancerous.

When changes in cervical cells are found early, they can often be treated effectively before they become dangerous. Regular Pap testing can reduce cervical cancer deaths by 70 per cent.

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is usually caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). However, several other factors are known to increase the risk of cervical cancer including:

• Sexual activity
• Smoking
• Weakened immune system
• Diethylstilbestrol (DES)
• Socioeconomic status
• Family history
• History of STIs (sexually transmitted infections)

Symptoms

In the early stages of cervical cancer, a woman may or may not experience symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods
• Pain during sexual intercourse or bleeding after intercourse
• Clear, watery, or foul-smelling discharge from the vagina
• Increased amount of vaginal discharge

Updated guidelines recommend Pap testing for women who are, or have been, sexually active. Testing should begin at age 21, and repeated every 3 years. Screening may be discontinued at the age of 70, if there have been 3 or more normal tests in the last 10 years.

Does Vaccination Prevent HPV?

Yes, vaccination is an effective way to prevent cervical cancer. This new and safe HPV vaccine is available at all Appletree locations. However, even if you have been vaccinated, you should still get a Pap test. Book your appointment today at any Appletree location, and detect the early signs of HPV.

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What to Expect During Your Appointment

You will be asked to complete a short heath questionnaire which will provide the doctor you are seeing with relevant medical information regarding your health. The Pap test will be completed by either a Physician or an International Medical Graduate (IMG).  You will be asked to lie down on the exam table and a speculum will be inserted into the vagina, to allow the cervix to be examined. Using a small brush, your cervix will be swabbed to collect cells for analysis.

If you do not have OHIP coverage, make sure to take your swabs and accompanying requisitions with you at the end of the appointment, to drop off at a local laboratory. Nearby locations will be listed on the bottom of the requisition for your convenience.

After Your Appointment

We will provide you online access to your Pap test results, through your secure and confidential Patient Portal, so that you may access them from anywhere, at any time. Pap test results are generally available 4 weeks after your appointment.