I) PAP SMEAR

*What is a PAP smear ?
It is a smear taken from the cervix and vagina by a cotton tipped swab, placed on a slide and stained by PAPanicolaou stain. The stain enables the cytologist to look for both benign  and malignant cells. PAP smear is simple, noninvasive and very accurate.

*When do I need to start screening for Cervical cancer ?
It is highly recommended to start screening for cancer cervix after the first sexual intercourse or at the age of 35. The test is repeated every year as long as the smear is negative for malignant cells. In case of detection of malignant cells, a colposcope is done.

II) COLPOSCOPY

*What is a Colposcope ?
A scope is introduced through your cervix to determine the site of malignant cells detected by the previously applied PAP smear. It produces magnification up to 40 times. This procedure is called COLPOSCOPY.

Copyright © 2004 [Cairo Oncology Center].
Revised: 07/28/05.