Pap Smear & Cervical Cancel Screening in Loni Kalbhor
Regular cervical screening can help detect HPV infection and abnormal cervical cell changes before they progress into more serious disease. Get informed screening and gynecological care at Bloom Hospital.
Protect Your Cervical Health with Regular Screening
Cervical cancer screening is a preventive health check rather than a test performed only when symptoms develop.
Screening may help:
- Detect cervical cell changes before they become cancerous
- Identify high-risk HPV infection
- Determine whether further evaluation is required
- Support early detection of cervical disease
- Reduce the risk of cervical cancer through timely follow-up and treatment
WHO currently recommends HPV DNA-based testing as the preferred primary screening approach in organized screening programmes where it is available and appropriate. Pap smear/cytology remains another screening method used in clinical practice.
The appropriate screening test and interval depend on factors such as age, previous screening results, medical history, immune status and local clinical recommendations.
Quick Answer
A Pap smear is a screening test that examines cells collected from the cervix for abnormal changes. Cervical cancer screening may also use HPV testing to identify high-risk HPV infections. Screening can detect cervical abnormalities before cervical cancer develops, allowing appropriate follow-up and treatment when necessary.
What Is a Pap Smear?
A Pap smear is a cervical cytology test used to look for abnormal cells on the cervix.
During the test, a healthcare professional gently collects cells from the cervix using a small sampling device. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for examination.
The purpose is not simply to look for cancer. A Pap smear can identify cellular changes that may need monitoring, further testing or treatment before they progress to cervical cancer.
Pap testing is different from an HPV test:
- Pap smear: Looks for abnormal changes in cervical cells.
- HPV test: Looks for high-risk HPV infection associated with cervical cancer.
- Co-testing: Uses both HPV testing and cervical cytology in selected settings.
The most appropriate approach depends on the patient’s circumstances and the screening strategy being followed.
What Is Cervical Cancer Screening?
Cervical cancer screening involves testing women who do not necessarily have symptoms to identify HPV infection or abnormal cervical changes.
Current WHO guidance places HPV DNA testing at the centre of cervical cancer screening because persistent infection with high-risk HPV types is the main cause of cervical cancer
- HPV Testing
A cervical sample is tested for high-risk HPV types associated with cervical cancer.
- Pap Smear / Cytology
Cells collected from the cervix are examined for abnormal changes.
- HPV Testing With Triage
If HPV is detected, additional assessment may be recommended to determine the appropriate next step.
Screening & Diagnostic Services
A cervical sample may be collected during a gynecological consultation and sent for appropriate laboratory evaluation to identify abnormal cervical cell changes.
When clinically appropriate and available, HPV testing may be recommended as part of cervical cancer screening or further evaluation.
The doctor examine the cervix and discuss symptoms, previous screening results and relevant medical history.
Bloom Hospital lists pathology among its diagnostic facilities. The availability and processing location of a particular cervical screening test should be confirmed with the hospital team.
Why Is Cervical Cancer Screening Important?
- Detects Changes Before Cancer Develops
Cervical cancer usually develops over time. Screening can identify precancerous changes before they progress to invasive cancer.
- Identifies High-Risk HPV
High-risk HPV infections are responsible for the vast majority of cervical cancers. HPV testing can identify infections that may require closer follow-up.
- Helps Guide Further Evaluation
An abnormal screening result does not automatically mean that you have cancer. It indicates that additional assessment may be needed.
- Supports Early Treatment
When significant precancerous changes are identified, appropriate treatment can help prevent progression to cervical cancer.
Who Should Consider Cervical Cancer Screening?
Screening recommendations depend on age, medical history, previous test results and the screening programme being followed.
HPV DNA-based screening for the general population beginning at around 30 years of age, with intervals determined by the screening strategy and health-system context. For women living with HIV, WHO recommends starting HPV-based screening earlier, at around 25 years, with shorter screening intervals.
However, these are population-level recommendations. Your doctor may recommend a different approach based on:
- Age
- Previous Pap smear or HPV results
- Previous cervical abnormalities
- HPV vaccination status
- Immune-system conditions
- History of cervical treatment
Pap Smear vs HPV Test
There is no single test used for every high-risk pregnancy. The obstetrician monitored high risk pregnancy according to the mother’s condition, stage of pregnancy and baby’s development.
| Pap Smear | HPV Test |
|---|---|
| Examines cervical cells for abnormal changes | Detects high-risk HPV infection |
| Identifies cellular abnormalities | Identifies a major cause of cervical cancer |
| Uses a cervical cell sample | Uses a cervical sample |
| May be used as a primary screening method in some settings | HPV DNA testing as the preferred primary screening approach where appropriate |
How Is a Pap Smear Done?
- Step 1
Positioning
You will lie on an examination table in a position that allows the healthcare professional to examine the cervix.
- Step 2
Speculum Examination
A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina so that the cervix can be visualized.
- Step 3
Cell Collection
A small sampling device is used to collect cells from the cervix.
- Step 4
Laboratory Examination
The collected sample is sent to a laboratory, where the cells are examined for abnormalities.
When to See a Gynecologist for Cervical screening?
Cervical screening is important even when you feel completely well.
You should also consult a gynecologist if you experience:
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
- Bleeding between periods
- Unusually heavy or irregular bleeding
- Bleeding after menopause
- Persistent unusual vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain
- A previous abnormal Pap smear
- A positive HPV test
These symptoms do not necessarily indicate cervical cancer. However, they should be evaluated rather than waiting for the next routine screening appointment.
Dr. Tejal Borate (Baravkar)
Founder – Bloom Multispeciality Hospital
MBBS, DNB (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) | 10 Years of Experience
Registration No. – MH/2018051760
Dr. Tejal Borate (Baravkar) is an experienced Obstetrician and Gynecologist dedicated to providing comprehensive care for women at every stage of life. With 10 years of experience in Obstetrics & Gynecology, she focuses on providing personalized care with compassion, clinical expertise, and attention to each patient’s individual needs.
High Risk Pregnancy
Advanced Laparoscopy Surgery
Infertility Treatment
PMOS & Hormonal Management
Cervical Cancer Screening at Bloom Hospital
Bloom Hospital provides gynecological care and diagnostic facilities that support women’s preventive healthcare. A gynecological consultation can help you understand whether cervical cancer screening is appropriate, which screening approach may be suitable and whether further evaluation is required based on your medical history.
Bloom Hospital provides gynecological services along with diagnostic facilities including ultrasound and pathology.
Book a consultation to discuss Pap smear, HPV testing or cervical cancer screening. A consultation can help women understand:
- Pap smear and HPV testing
- Previous abnormal screening results
- Cervical cancer prevention
- HPV vaccination and screening
Pap Smear & Cervical Cancer Screening in Loni Kalbhor & Pune
Bloom Hospital is located on Pune-Solapur Road in Loni Kalbhor and provides gynecological and preventive women’s healthcare.
Women who are due for cervical cancer screening or who have questions about a previous Pap smear or HPV result can consult a gynecologist to determine the appropriate next step.
- Uruli Kanchan
- Kharadi
- Manjari
- Fursungi
- Hadapsar
- Loni kalbhor
- Shewalwadi
We’re Here When You Need Us
Location
- 3rd Floor, Balkrishna Heirtage, Pune-Solapur Highway, Opposite HP Terminal, Loni Kalbhor, Pune
Phone
- +91-9022919976
Clinic Hours
- Monday to Sunday - 09.00 AM to 09.00 PM
- Emergency - 24/7 Available
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Pap smear?
A Pap smear is a cervical cytology test that examines cells collected from the cervix for abnormal changes.
Is a Pap smear the same as an HPV test?
No. A Pap smear looks for abnormal cervical cells, while an HPV test detects high-risk HPV infection. Depending on the screening strategy, one or both tests may be used.
At what age should cervical cancer screening begin?
Screening recommendations vary by country, screening method and individual circumstances. WHO recommends HPV DNA-based screening for the general population beginning around age 30, while women living with HIV are recommended to start earlier.
Does an abnormal Pap smear mean cancer?
No. An abnormal Pap result means that cervical cells show changes that may require further evaluation. Many abnormal results are not cancer.
What happens if my HPV test is positive?
A positive HPV test does not mean you have cervical cancer. Your doctor may recommend additional testing or follow-up depending on the HPV result, Pap result, age and previous screening history.
Can HPV vaccination replace a Pap smear?
No. HPV vaccination does not replace cervical cancer screening.
Can cervical cancer be detected early?
Yes. Screening can identify HPV infection or precancerous cervical changes before invasive cervical cancer develops, allowing appropriate follow-up and treatment.
