Pap Smear In Centurion Since 1998
What Is A Pap Smear?
A Pap smear is an important cervical cancer screening test used to detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they develop into cervical cancer.
Regular Pap smear screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer and protect long-term reproductive health.
Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in Africa and is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 25 and 45. In many cases, early cervical cell changes may not cause symptoms, although some women may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Why Is A Pap Smear Important?
A Pap smear can:
• Detect abnormal cervical cells early
• Identify changes caused by HPV infection
• Help prevent cervical cancer
• Allow early treatment before cancer develops
• Support long-term women’s reproductive health
When cervical abnormalities are detected early, treatment is usually highly successful and cervical cancer can often be completely prevented.
How Is A Pap Smear Done?
During the procedure:
• A small sample of cells is collected from the cervix
• The sample is sent to a laboratory
• The cells are examined under a microscope for abnormalities
The procedure is quick, confidential and performed by experienced medical professionals.
Who Should Have A Pap Smear?
All sexually active women should have regular Pap smear screening.
Most women are exposed to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) within the first few years of becoming sexually active. This is why Pap smear screening is important for younger women as well and not only for older women.
Pap smear screening is generally recommended every 3 to 5 years depending on age, medical history and previous results.
What Causes Abnormal Cervical Cells?
The most common cause of abnormal cervical cells is the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
HPV is transmitted through sexual contact and certain high-risk HPV strains may cause abnormal changes in cervical cells which, over time, can develop into cervical cancer if left untreated.
How Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented?
The risk of cervical cancer may be reduced by:
• Having regular Pap smear screening
• Knowing your HPV status
• Early detection of abnormal cervical cells
• Receiving HPV vaccination
• Practicing safer sexual health
HPV Vaccination
An HPV vaccination known as Gardasil is available to help protect against certain HPV strains linked to cervical cancer.
The vaccine may significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer, especially before exposure to HPV.
An HPV test can often be performed using the same sample collected during the Pap smear procedure.
Confidential Pap Smear Screening In Centurion
At Reproductive Choices SA in Centurion, Gauteng, we provide confidential Pap smear screening and women’s reproductive health assessments in a professional and respectful medical environment.
Bookings are essential. Pap smear procedure fee is R1000 including the consult and lab fees.