why i am encourage woman to do this pap smear is because its better to prevent than is too late...
Just to inform those woman who reads my blog, was advised to go do a pap smear cos the cervical cancer in singapore is increasing and
Cervical cancer is cancer of the neck of the womb which is called cervix and is one of the most common cancers that affect a woman’s reproductive organs.
Cervical cancer is the 6th most common cancer among women in Singapore.
The incidence of cervical cancer has reduced considerably in the last few years due to screening with PAP smears.
Types of cervical cancer
- Squamous cell carcinomas begin in the thin flat cells at the lower part of the cervix.
- Adenocarcinomas occur in the glandular cells that line the upper portion of the cervix.
- Adenosqumous carcinomas are cancers in which both types of cells are involved in cervical cancer.
Causes
It is not clear what causes the squamous cells or glandular cells of the cervix to become abnormal and develop into cancer.
The human papilloma virus (HPV) has been implicated in causing cervical cancer. However, most women with HPV do not develop cervical cancer.
Risk factors
Factors which may increase the risk of cervical cancer include:
- Multiple sexual partners will increase the chance of acquiring HPV infection.
- Early sexual activity
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis or HIV/AIDS.
- Weak immune system due HIV/AIDS or the use of immunosuppressive drugs such as steroids as in organ transplant patients.
- Cigarette smoking
Symptoms
In the early stages, women with cervical cancer may not have any symptoms.
As the cancer progresses, these symptoms and signs include:
- Vaginal bleeding following intercourse, or in between periods or after menopause
- Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul smell
- Lower abdominal pain or pain during intercourse
Screening
Screening may include:
Pap smear test
- During a Pap test the doctor brushes cells from the narrow neck of the uterus (cervix) and sends the sample to be examined for abnormalities.
- A Pap test can detect the precancerous stage when the abnormal cells (dysplasia) are in the outer layer of the cervix and have not invaded deeper tissues.
HPV DNA test
- The HPV DNA test is used to determine whether a person is infected with any of the 13 types of HPV that are most likely to lead to cervical cancer.
Diagnosis
To confirm the diagnosis, the specialist may perform the following tests:
- Colposcopy involves examining the cervix using an instrument called colposcope and taking samples of cells for analysis (biopsy).
- Punch Biopsy involves taking a small sample of cervical cells and examining the tissue under microscope.
- Cone biopsy involves removing a cone-shaped area of cervical cells using a scalpel or laser.
Treatment
Early stage cancer
Treatments of early stage cancer include:
- Cone biopsy (conization).
- Laser surgery.
- Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).
- Cryosurgery.
- Hysterectomy.
Invasive cancers
Cervical cancer that invades deeper into the cervix is referred to as invasive cancer and requires more extensive treatment.
Treatment options may include:
Surgery
A radical hysterectomy.Radiotherapy
Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy to kill cancer cells and can be given externally using external beam radiation or internally by placing devices filled with radioactive material near the cervix.Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses strong anti-cancer chemicals to kill cancer cells.
Prevention
The risk of cervical cancer can be reduced by taking measures to prevent HPV infection. HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact with any infected part of the body not just through intercourse. These include:
- Using condoms during sex reduces the risk of contracting HPV.
- Delaying first intercourse, having fewer sexual partners and avoiding smoking.
- Getting vaccinated with the HPV vaccine. The vaccine is most effective if given to girls before they become sexually active.
- Having regular Pap smears which are the most effective way to detect cervical cancer.
Pap Smear Procedure
What is a Pap smear?
A Pap smear is a screening test to check for changes in the cells of your cervix which may develop into cancer later. It is a simple procedure where cells are collected from your cervix and sent to a laboratory where the cells are examined under a microscope. It takes only a few minutes and can be done by a nurse or a doctor.
Acknowledgement: Diagram taken from
American Academy of Family Physicians
 |
| Normal cervical cells under the microscope |
 |  |
| Abnormal cervical cells under the microscope | |
Acknowledgement: Pictures taken from the American Society of Pathology.
How often should you go for a Pap smear?
All woman aged between 25 and 69 who ever had sex are advised to have a Pap smear done once every 3 years.
Where can I have a Pap smear done?
The Pap smear is available at general practitioner clinics and all polyclinics.
How do I prepare myself for the Pap smear test?
- Schedule your appointment 2 weeks after the start of your menstrual period.
- Avoid sexual intercourse 48 hours before the test
- Do not use spermicides, vaginal creams, lubricant jellies, vaginal medications or tampons two days before the test.
- Wear a two piece outfit as you will need to undress from the waist down.
What happens at a screening appointment?
The diagram shows what typically happens when a woman attends for Pap smear screening at the polyclinics.
*About 1 in 10 Pap smear results are abnormal. However they are rarely cancer. Women who have abnormal results are strongly encouraged to go for further tests as advised by the doctor.
How is Pap smear done?
The Pap smear is a quick and simple test. First, you will be asked to lie down. A small instrument called a speculum will be inserted into your vagina to get a clear view of your cervix (neck of the womb). The nurse or doctor will then use a small brush to collect some cells from your cervix and smear them onto a glass slide. The cell sample will be sent to the laboratory for tests.
Will the procedure be painful?
You may experience some discomfort during the procedure. To help you relax, take slow deep breaths as the speculum is inserted. If you feel pain, inform the doctor or nurse immediately.
Yes, cervical cancer can be treated. It is important that you have a Pap smear once every 3 years so that the cancer can be detected early, when treatment is most effective.
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