The news is that the system for pap smears has changed. The test is now called the ‘Cervical Screening Test’
What has changed?
- The main test is a chemical automated test and the results are far more accurate. In most cases if this test is normal, then your next smear will be due in 5 years.
- Testing starts later, now at 25 years not 18 years, and for most women finishes later at 74 years.
What hasn’t changed?
- In most cases the test will be done by the GP still using a speculum.
- Cervical Screening Testing is for any woman who has ever been sexually active.
- If you have unusual vaginal bleeding or pain with intercourse, discuss these problems with your GP.
Why have these changes occurred?
The new test detects HPV (human papilloma virus) that causes 99% of cervical cancers & we are testing at a stage prior to cell changes.
The process of the virus causing low grade changes in cells ---> pre-cancerous cells ---> cervix cancer occurs over 10 or more years.
If HPV virus is detected on the main test, a second test is performed on the same sample to determine if there are changes in the cells. Depending on the results, a small percentage of women are asked to repeat the test in 12 months, and an even smaller number will be referred to a gynaecologist.
By testing for the virus, we can be confident that in the 5 years after testing, there will not be enough time for cancer to develop.
Where to now?
If it is two or more years since your last pap smear, get your cervical testing done now. The likelihood is you can then have peace of mind for the next 5 years.
What if I avoid testing?
If you haven’t had cervical screening testing for many years, and are likely to avoid testing, then soon there will be a self-collection kit. Although it may not always give a complete result, it will be better to try for any result than be at risk of cervix cancer unknowingly.
