Cervical cancer is unusual among cancers in one important respect: it has a long, detectable pre-cancerous stage. Changes in the cervix can be identified and treated years before cancer would develop.
Why this matters in India
India carries a substantial share of the world's cervical cancer burden, and much of it is diagnosed late — not because screening does not work, but because too few women are screened at all. A Pap smear takes a few minutes.
What the test involves
A Pap smear collects a small sample of cells from the cervix, which is then examined for abnormal changes. The test is brief and done in the clinic. Some women find it mildly uncomfortable; it is not usually painful.
HPV testing looks for the virus that causes almost all cervical cancer, and may be recommended alongside or instead of a Pap smear depending on your age and history.
Who should be screened
Screening is generally recommended for women from their thirties onwards, and continues at intervals through middle age. Your history determines the exact schedule, which we will set out in writing.
Screening remains relevant even if you have been vaccinated against HPV, because the vaccine does not cover every high-risk strain.
If a result is abnormal
An abnormal Pap result usually does not mean cancer. It most often indicates cell changes that need monitoring or a simple treatment. We will explain what the result means and arrange the appropriate next step.
Part of our preventive oncology services.