{"id":107697,"date":"2022-04-07T18:25:02","date_gmt":"2022-04-07T16:25:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ivi-fertility.com\/?p=107697"},"modified":"2022-04-12T17:35:09","modified_gmt":"2022-04-12T15:35:09","slug":"smear-test-prevent-cervical-cancer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ivi-fertility.com\/blog\/smear-test-prevent-cervical-cancer\/","title":{"rendered":"Preventing cervical cancer through smear tests"},"content":{"rendered":"

According to WHO<\/a> figures, cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer worldwide. Its incidence exceeds 600,000 cases per year, with more than 50% of deaths. However, this type of cancer has a good prognosis if it is diagnosed in time and appropriate treatment is started. Prevention is better than cure and that is why today we will discuss the Pap test or smear<\/strong> test<\/strong>. This simple test can detect this and other diseases. What does it consist of? What is its aim? We answer these and other questions.<\/p>\n

What is a smear test?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A smear test<\/strong> is a painless technique that takes only a few minutes. The gynaecologist extracts a sample of cells from the inside and the outside of the cervix, which are sent to the laboratory for analysis and diagnosis. He\/She performs the test by inserting a brush and a spatula and gently scraping the cervix.<\/p>\n

The purpose of a smear test<\/strong> is to diagnose cervical cancer or precursor lesions. It can also detect other diseases such as human papillomavirus (HPV) or other conditions caused by fungi or bacteria.<\/p>\n

Experts agree that women between the ages of 25 and 29 should have a smear test<\/strong> every three years. For those between the ages of 30 and 65, testing every five years would be sufficient. In some cases, the frequency should be increased in order to keep risk factors under control:<\/p>\n