Can a Pap test detect cervical cancer?

The Pap test and HPV test are screening tests, not diagnostic tests. They cannot tell for certain if you have cervical cancer. An abnormal Pap test or HPV test result may mean more testing is needed to see if a cancer or a pre-cancer is present.

Does cervical screening replace Pap smear?

The Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap test as the method of cervical screening. The new test looks for HPV, an infection that can cause cells in the cervix to change and become abnormal. As a result of HPV infection that doesn’t clear up, these cell changes can occasionally develop into cervical cancer.

What is cervical testing?

Cervical cancer screening is used to find changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cancer. Screening includes cervical cytology (also called the Pap test or Pap smear), testing for human papillomavirus (HPV), or both. Most women should have cervical cancer screening on a regular basis.

What is a better test than Pap smear?

Study Suggests HPV Test More Accurate Than Pap Smear for Cervical Cancer Screening.

How a cervical check is done?

During the Pap test, the doctor will use a plastic or metal instrument, called a speculum, to widen your vagina. This helps the doctor examine the vagina and the cervix, and collect a few cells and mucus from the cervix and the area around it. The cells are sent to a laboratory.

Is Pap test accurate?

Although Pap tests may not always be accurate, they are one of the most effective cancer prevention tools a woman can utilize to stay healthy. In fact, the Pap test is largely responsible for a 70 percent decrease in cervical cancer deaths in the United States in the past 50 years.

Why Pap test is done?

Why Is a Pap Smear Done? A pap smear is done to look for changes in cervical cells before they turn into cancer. If you have cancer, finding it early on gives you the best chance of fighting it. If you don’t, finding cell changes early can help prevent you from getting cancer.