Pap Smear Test

Pap-Smear-Test

What Is a Pap Smear Test?

A Pap smear test (Papanicolaou test) is a simple and essential screening method for detecting early cellular changes in the cervix that could develop into cancer if left untreated.
It helps identify precancerous lesions (CIN 1–3) and infections caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the main factor in cervical cancer development.

At Saga Clinic, the Pap smear is performed under sterile conditions by trained specialists using advanced cytological methods, ensuring reliable and accurate results.

Why Is It Important?

Cervical cancer often progresses silently, without symptoms in its early stages. Regular Pap smears allow doctors to detect and treat abnormal cells before they become cancerous.
When combined with HPV DNA testing, the Pap test offers the highest level of preventive protection for women’s reproductive health.

Key benefits:

  • Early detection of precancerous changes (CIN 1–3)
  • Prevention of cervical cancer through timely treatment
  • Monitoring of HPV-related lesions after treatment
  • Safe, quick, and minimally invasive procedure

When and How Often Should It Be Done?

  • Ages 21–29: Pap smear every 3 years
  • Ages 30–65: Pap smear + HPV DNA test every 5 years (co-testing) or Pap smear alone every 3 years
  • After 65: Screening may stop if the last 3 results are normal and no high-risk factors are present
  • After hysterectomy: Screening continues only if the cervix remains or there is a history of high-grade lesions

High-risk women (HPV infection, multiple partners, smoking, weakened immunity) should have more frequent follow-ups as advised by their physician.

How Is the Pap Test Performed?

  1. The patient lies in a gynecological position.
  2. A sterile speculum is gently inserted to visualize the cervix.
  3. Cells are collected from the cervix using a soft brush or spatula.
  4. The sample is placed in a liquid medium and sent to the laboratory.
  5. The result is usually available within 3–5 days.

The procedure is painless, does not require anesthesia, and takes only a few minutes.

Understanding Pap Smear Results

Pap smear results are categorized according to the Bethesda System, which helps standardize reporting and guide follow-up decisions.

Possible results include:

  • Normal / Negative: No abnormal or precancerous cells detected.
  • ASC-US (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance): Minor changes, often HPV-related; follow-up with HPV test recommended.
  • LSIL (Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion): Mild cellular changes, often transient.
  • HSIL (High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion): Significant abnormalities that may require colposcopy or biopsy.
  • AGC (Atypical Glandular Cells): Requires further evaluation.

Pap Smear vs. HPV DNA Test

While the Pap smear detects abnormal cell changes, the HPV DNA test identifies the viral types that cause these changes.
Combining both tests (co-testing) provides the most comprehensive screening method for early diagnosis and prevention of cervical cancer.

The Saga Clinic Approach

At Saga Clinic in Tirana, under the supervision of Dr. Eser Agar, Pap smears and HPV tests are performed following international standards (ASCCP, WHO).
All samples are processed with modern cytological and molecular diagnostic systems for maximum reliability.
The clinic ensures:

  • Strict confidentiality
  • Fast, clear reporting
  • Personalized follow-up based on test results

When Further Evaluation Is Needed

If your Pap smear or HPV result is abnormal, your doctor may recommend:

  • Colposcopy: Direct visualization of the cervix under magnification
  • Cervical biopsy: For histopathological confirmation
  • LEEP procedure: Removal of abnormal tissue when indicated
  • HPV genotyping: Identification of high-risk viral subtypes (HPV 16, 18, etc.)

Patient Advantages

  • Quick and painless procedure
  • Early detection saves lives
  • Combined Pap + HPV testing available in the same visit
  • Results explained clearly by your physician
  • Personalized treatment and follow-up at Saga Clinic

Appointments and Contact

Appointments can be booked online or via WhatsApp for fast consultation.
Our medical team will guide you through your screening process and provide expert counseling based on your results.

For appointment requests or medical inquiries, please contact us using the options below.

📞 Clinic Phone (Office Hours)
+355 69 836 1565
Available Monday–Saturday, 09:00–16:00.

💬 WhatsApp (Outside Office Hours)
+355 69 362 0838
Available outside office hours via WhatsApp Message only.