Cervical cancer usually develops over many years and is preceded by cell changes that cause no symptoms. When these precancerous changes are detected and monitored or treated through screening, the risk of the disease developing can be reduced considerably. That is where the value of screening lies: it is done before symptoms appear.
Most cervical cancers are linked to long-lasting infection with high-risk types of HPV, which is transmitted sexually. HPV is a very common virus, and most infections are cleared by the immune system within a year or two. Only some persist and may lead to cell changes.
In a smear test, cells taken from the cervix are examined under a microscope, while an HPV test looks for the presence of high-risk virus types. The national programme in Turkey recommends an HPV test and smear every five years for women aged 30 to 65. Depending on your health and previous results, the doctor may adjust how often you are screened.
The test takes a few minutes and most people feel only mild pressure. For a more reliable result, avoid vaginal douches, creams and intercourse for two days beforehand, and choose a day when you are not bleeding. Even if you have had the HPV vaccine, you should continue with screening.
An abnormal result does not usually mean cancer, but it may require follow-up or further assessment such as colposcopy. Talk to your doctor about your screening schedule and results. If you notice bleeding after intercourse, bleeding between periods or unpleasant-smelling discharge, have an examination without waiting for your next screening.
Medical content prepared by the doctor · Dr. Elif Sarıkaya