What is it?
Cervical screening is done to detect cell changes before they cause any symptoms. In a smear test, a sample of cells is taken from the cervix; an HPV test looks for the virus types that can lead to cancer. The national screening programme in Turkey recommends screening at regular intervals for women aged 30 to 65; the interval suited to you is determined by the doctor.
Who is it for?
- Women aged 30 to 65
- Those advised to have follow-up after a previous smear or HPV result
- Women who have not been screened for a long time
- Those with a condition that affects the immune system
How does it work?
Preparation
Avoiding vaginal douches, creams and intercourse for 48 hours before the test is recommended.
Taking the sample
The cervix is viewed with a speculum and a soft brush collects a cell sample within a few seconds.
Laboratory analysis
The sample is examined in a pathology or molecular diagnostics laboratory.
Results and follow-up
Your results are explained to you; if needed, further assessment such as colposcopy or repeat screening is planned.
Afterwards and recovery
You can resume normal activities immediately; light spotting may occur. The time to results depends on the laboratory and is usually between a few days and a few weeks.