Gynecological Monitoring and Pap Smear

Gynecological monitoring involves gynecological examination, pap smear, gynecological ultrasound, and breast examination. It should be done annually.

Pap smear or Papanicolaou test is a test conducted by pathologically examining the cells obtained from a smear on a slide or glass, from the cervical smear. It is initiated one year after the onset of sexual activity. It should be performed annually regularly until the age of 65. It is a part of gynecological examination in women. Its purpose is to detect cervical pathologies at a treatable stage, which is the precancerous or early stage of cancer. It also aids in diagnosing benign conditions such as cervical inflammation.

Pap smear should not be performed during menstruation, as the presence of blood cells can affect the test results. The best timing for the Pap smear test is within the first two weeks after the start of menstruation. Vaginal douching, tampon application, and the test should not be performed within the first 24 hours after intercourse. In case of an infection, the test should be done after the treatment. If you are pregnant or using birth control pills, you must inform your doctor about these conditions.

You may feel a mild contraction or pressure during the test. It is definitely not a painful procedure. After the test, you may have slight bleeding in the form of spotting.

If there is no pathology in the test results, and if you are within the appropriate age range and have no risk factors, the test should be repeated annually. In the presence of abnormal cells, a colposcopic examination can be conducted, and a diagnostic biopsy can be performed from the cervix and cervical canal.