The 3rd most common cancer in Malaysia is cervical cancer. It is also one of the easiest cancer to prevent with consistent checkups with your doctor and with regular PAP SMEAR screenings followed by HPV Vaccinations as well as follow ups. Women above the age of 21 and who are sexually active are recommended to get Pap Smear done.
Pap smears shouldn’t hurt. If it is your first time getting a pap smear, you may feel a little uncomfortable as it is a sensation you may not have felt before. It is also a subjective matter as the threshold of pain differs from one to another.
Although doctors often perform Pap smears during pelvic exams, a Pap Smear and is a pelvic exam are different.
A pelvic exam involves viewing and examining your reproductive organs which includes the vagina, vulva, cervix, ovaries as well as uterus.
This is to inspect your vulva and vaginal opening for unfamiliar discharge, redness, and other abnormalities.
Next, a speculum into your vagina which allows to inspect your vagina and check for cysts, swellings and etc.
It usually takes less than a minute to insert the speculum and take a cell sample from your cervix. Your total appointment period will usually take less than 5 minutes.
Sex can irritate the skin of the cervix or cause discharge (fluids) that can lead to an abnormal result.
