WOMEN 21 YEARS AND OLDER?

You should undergo a Cervical-Vaginal Smear / PAP TEST.

WHAT IS A CERVICAL-VAGINAL SMEAR / PAP TEST?

The Papanicolaou test, commonly known as the Pap test, is a screening exam for cervical cancer. It's a simple and quick procedure used to detect changes in the cells of the cervix. It’s painless and highly effective in preventing cervical cancer.

HOW IS A PAP TEST PERFORMED?

The cervix is an easily accessible organ for screening. Here's what happens during the test:

• The doctor gently inserts a special brush into the endocervical canal, which also reaches the exocervix.

• The brush is rotated at least twice to collect cell samples.

• The brush is then discharged into a preservation vial.

• The sample is sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Because it could save your life!

In Morocco, cervical cancer is the second most common genital cancer in women, after breast cancer.

The most significant risk factor for cervical cancer is infection by a virus: Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact, including genital skin-to-skin contact and oral-genital relations.

Using a condom only provides partial protection, as it doesn’t cover the entire genital area.

WHO SHOULD GET A PAP TEST?

All women who:

• Have been sexually active

• Are between the ages of 21 and 65

The recommended schedule is:

• Start with two Pap tests one year apart

• If results are normal: one Pap test every three years

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A CERVICAL-VAGINAL SMEAR / PAP TEST?

• Schedule the test for the middle of your menstrual cycle (between 10 to 20 days after your period starts).

In the 48 hours before your test:

• Avoid vaginal douching.

• Do not use any vaginal medications or contraceptives (such as spermicidal creams, foams, or gels), as they can mask abnormal cells.

In the 24 hours before your test:

• Avoid sexual intercourse.

WE OFFER PAP TESTS

• At home

• Or in our medical office