PAP SMEAR

Cell / cervical specimen is a specimen taken during a gynecological examination. The cell sample is taken with a small brush that captures surface cells. The goal of cervical exams is to detect and treat cell changes at an early stage so that cervical cancer can be avoided.

 

In Norway, all women from 25 to 69 years receive a letter reminding them of the Cancer Registry's Cervical Program when it is time to take a cell sample of the cervix. Women under 25 can also develop cell changes, and with us you can get follow-up even if you are under 25 or over 69. You can take the sample from our gynecologists. You can read more about the cervical program here .

 

Majorstuaklinikken offers preventive follow-up of cervical cancer. We call it an "annual check-up". In an annual examination with us you get a gynecological examination, cell test/pap smear and ultrasound of the ovaries and uterus. Checking this annually can prevent and detect any changes in the genital area. Many of our patients take an annual check-up for more than just a cervical exam. An annual check is also a way to get to know and follow up on their own health. We want to provide you with a safe and reliable follow-up with specialists.

 

You can read more about cervical examination and cell testing here .

 

Frequently asked questions:

Does it hurt?

Very few people experience cervical pain. Some experience a little discomfort, but it usually does not hurt. Many people experience less discomfort when it's done with a gynecologist.

 

How long does it take to get an answer?

The samples with us are analyzed privately and have an analysis time of three to four weeks. If your test is negative and everything looks good, you will generally not hear from us. If there are cell changes we will contact you as soon as the answer is in. If you still want to talk to us, you are most welcome to contact us .

 

How often should I check?

This varies. Our doctors recommends yearly monitoring so we can detect early cell changes.

 

It bleeds after I tried, is it dangerous?

No. It is normal for a cervix to bleed a little.

 

What happens if there are cell changes in my sample?

We recommend that you always talk to your doctor about questions about test answers.

 

If a cervical cancer is suspected, or if serious cell changes occur, your doctor will do a colposcope examination. A colposcope is similar to a microscope / binoculars. The doctor then sees with enlarged lenses any abnormal areas of the cervix and vagina, and can take small tissue samples (biopsies ) that are examined under a microscope. A small scraping of cells ( cell sample) from the cervix can also be done. In this way, the gynecologist gets cells from a larger area for microscopic examination. The colposcopy does not hurt, but when tissue and cell samples are taken, you may feel some pain. You may also bleed for a little while afterwards. You will receive an answer to the test after three to four weeks.

 

Minor cell changes are followed up with an annual pap smear. In many cases, the body manages to remove cell changes by itself. You can read more about cell changes and test responses on the Cancer Society's pages .

 

What is HPV and what does it have to do with a cervical exam? (video in Norwegian)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can read more about HPV and cell changes here .