Frequently Asked Questions

What is cervical cancer, and what causes it?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix-the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual contact.

What are the early symptoms of cervical cancer?

In its early stages, cervical cancer often has no symptoms, which is why regular screening is so important. As it progresses, symptoms may include:

Abnormal vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause)
Unusual vaginal discharge
Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse

How can cervical cancer be prevented?

Cervical cancer is highly preventable through:

HPV vaccination, ideally given between ages 10-45
Regular screening tests like Pap smears and HPV tests to detect early changes
Practicing safe sex and avoiding tobacco use

What is a Pap smear test?

A Pap smear test (also called a Pap test) is a simple and quick procedure used to screen for cervical cancer in women. During the test, a healthcare provider gently collects cells from the cervix—the lower part of the uterus—to check for any abnormal changes or signs of precancerous or cancerous conditions. It is usually done during a pelvic exam and plays a crucial role in early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. Regular Pap tests are recommended for women starting from the age of 21, or as advised by a doctor.

What is the difference between an LBC test and a Pap smear test?

Both the LBC (Liquid-Based Cytology) test and the conventional Pap smear are used to screen for cervical cancer by examining cells from the cervix. However, they differ in how the sample is collected and processed:

Pap Smear Test (Conventional): In this method, the collected cervical cells are directly smeared onto a glass slide and then sent to the lab for examination. This traditional method is effective but may sometimes have issues like overlapping cells or presence of mucus and blood, which can make interpretation difficult.
LBC (Liquid-Based Cytology): In LBC, the cervical cells are collected in a similar way but instead of placing them on a slide, the sample is rinsed into a special liquid solution. The liquid is then processed in the lab to remove unwanted materials and produce a clearer, more accurate sample on the slide. LBC provides a higher quality specimen and often results in more accurate detection of abnormalities.

In short, LBC is a more advanced and refined version of the Pap test with better clarity and accuracy, though both are used for cervical cancer screening.

Who should do pap smear (LBC) test, and how often?

Women should start cervical cancer screening at age 21. General guidelines are:

A Pap smear every 2 years for women aged 21-29
Pap smear + HPV test every 5 years (or Pap alone every 2 years)
Screening may stop after 65 if recent tests have been normal, but consult your doctor.

Is cervical cancer curable?

Yes - when detected early, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable forms of cancer. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy depending on the stage. That's why early detection through screening is crucial.