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• Women's Health |
The Cervical Smear TestThe smear test is recommended to all women who are aged 20 to 64 especially to those who are sexually active. Even if you have gone through menopause, you will still need to take the smear test to check that the cervix is still healthy. You will only need to take the smear test ones every 3 years if the result is normal (negative), and rest assured that the test is not a painful one, although it maybe slightly uncomfortable. Before the Smear TestThere is no real preparation that needs to be done for the smear test, although it is advised not to use any spermicide or lubricant jelly at least 24 hours before the test since chemicals in these products may affect the result of the smear test. The smear test cannot be done during menstruation, so be sure to get an appointment before or after your period is due. Repeating the Smear TestAt times, a smear test would need to be repeated. There are several reasons for this. At times, the sample taken would be too small for the laboratory to test upon, or it could have a slight infection. Occasionally an abnormal smear result is reported and this meant that changes in the cells are present. Most of these abnormal cells are not cancerous and clear up naturally. Rarely, the abnormal cells don't clear up, and this is when the doctor advices a colposcopy. The ColposcopyThe coloscope is a low-powered microscope that is used to view the cervix. The colposcopy is a simple examination that allows the clinician to see if you need any treatment The test takes about 15 minutes and is not painful, although it can cause some slight discomfort. With this examination, this doctor can decide if treatment if necessary, and if it is, what course of treatment to take. If the treatment is needed, it is normally 100 percent effective! A smear test can be done at your local health centers or private gynaecologists, so take care of your health and take the smear test regularly! 
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