Menstruating individuals may not always follow their cycle precisely when scheduling a Pap smear, and their periods may not always arrive on time.
Every three years, women between the ages of 21 and 65 should get Pap tests, also known as Pap smears, which are screening tests for cervical cancer.
The results of these tests may be impacted by menstruation, so you might be asking if you can obtain a Pap smear during your period.
You can, in the short term, but it will rely on things like your comfort level and the advice of your gynaecologist.
Here’s what you should know about having a Pap smear while menstruating:
Cell samples from your cervix are taken for a Pap test to check for cervical cancer. The test can also be used to search for cellular alterations, such as precancerous lesions brought on by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which may be signs of cancer development.
A metal or plastic speculum is inserted into your vagina by a medical professional to facilitate the Pap test. The health care provider will remove cell samples from your cervix with a gentle brush.
Occasionally, the medical professional will perform co-testing, in which they finish the Pap test and the HPV test simultaneously. Samples are taken from outside the cervix for the HPV test.
After that, the samples are transported to a lab for analysis.
When Is A Pap Smear Necessary?
It is advised that women begin screening for cervical cancer at the age of 25 and continue until they are 65.
The best way to test for HPV is every five years. You may require more frequent Pap smears if you have risk factors such as a family history of cervical cancer or abnormal Pap results.
A pelvic exam, a standard component of your yearly OB-GYN visit, may include Pap tests, HPV tests, or both.
Of course, you can schedule a pelvic exam at any moment if you are having pain in your pelvis or strange vaginal discharge.
There is no reason why you cannot receive a Pap test during your menstrual cycle. If your flow is exceptionally heavy, it might not be the best option.
It might have an impact on the results of the Pap test by not obtaining adequate cells.
Your comfort level should also be considered. If you feel uncomfortable having a Pap test, HPV test, or even your yearly exam when you are on your period, it is preferable to reschedule and return on a day when you are not menstruating.
It’s up to you; but if you can, think about rescheduling your appointment to the following week. It’s best if you can avoid your menses.
Not getting your period allows us to get all the cervical cells we need from Pap tests.
Some people’s flow can be so strong that it occasionally indicates that blood cells are being obtained and not cervical cells.
What To Do During Your Scheduled Appointment?
If you decide to proceed with your appointment, there is no reason to be ashamed. Inform the physician assistant that you are menstruating when you check in for your appointment and they will lead you to the exam room.
In the bathroom, you can take off your menstrual cup, pad, or tampon.
Remaining menstrual blood in the vaginal canal may be removed with a swab so the medical professional can make sure everything appears normal. Everything about the exam should go according to plan.
Being at ease during your gynaecological checkup is the most crucial part of the procedure.
It is better to cancel the visit if you have severe bleeding or cramping, but you should let your doctor know if you are having any uncomfortable or unusual symptoms.
Will The Pap Test Results Be Reliable?
The sensitivity of cervical tests analysis is higher which means that getting your period will not directly lead to an incorrect result.
When you see your doctor for a Pap test during your menstrual cycle, they will try their hardest to obtain the necessary cervical cells.
The test will return with an inadequate result if there are insufficient cervical cells for a result.
If the results of the first Pap test are insufficient to make a diagnosis, the doctor will inform her patients that there is a chance they will need to return for another one.
This is just something to be aware of and ready for if you choose to keep your appointment during your period.
Typically, getting a Pap smear during your menstruation may be possible. To be sure, give the doctor a call before your visit to find out what they would like you to do.
Some may recommend you still attend your appointment, while others may advise you to try again on a different day.
You can reschedule your appointment depending on the timing of your period, your comfort level, and the advice of your doctor.
Dr Bheena Vyshali is a consultant gynaecologist at Beacon Hospital.
- This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Ova.
