Pap and HPV tests | Office on Women’s Health

Pap tests (or Pap smears) look for cancers and precancers in the cervix. Precancers are cell changes that can be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). If not treated, these abnormal cells could lead to cervical cancer. An HPV test looks for HPV in cervical cells. Most women 21 to 65 years old need to get Pap tests or a Pap test and HPV test together. Not all women need to be tested every year.

What is a Pap test?

A Pap test is a test your doctor or nurse does to check your cervix for any cells that are not normal. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb), which opens into the vagina. Abnormal cervical cells, if not found and treated, can lead to cervical cancer.

During a Pap test your doctor or nurse puts a speculum (a tool that helps your doctor or nurse see your cervix) into your vagina and uses a special stick or soft brush to collect cells from the outside of your cervix. The cells are sent to a laboratory for testing.

What is an HPV test?

An HPV test looks for DNA from HPV in cells from your cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb), which opens into the vagina. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that goes away on its own in most people.¹ If it does not go away, HPV can cause abnormal cervical cells that can lead to cervical cancer.

Certain types of HPV are more likely to cause cervical cancer.² The HPV test can tell your doctor if you have HPV and which type it is.

During an HPV test, your doctor or nurse puts a speculum (a tool that helps your doctor or nurse see your cervix) into your vagina and uses a soft brush to collect cells from the outside of your cervix. The cells are tested in a laboratory.

Pap tests and HPV tests can be done at the same time (called co-testing).

Why do I need a Pap and HPV test?

A Pap test can save your life. It can find cervical cancer cells early. The chance of successful treatment of cervical cancer is very high if the disease is caught early. Pap tests can also find abnormal cervical cells before they become cancer (precancers). Removing these precancers prevents cervical cancer over 95% of the time.³

An HPV test can give your doctor more information about the cells from your cervix. For example, if the Pap test shows abnormal cervical cells, the HPV test can show whether you have a type of HPV that causes cervical cancer.

Who should get regular Pap or HPV tests?

Most women 21 to 65 years old should get Pap tests as part of routine health care. Even if you are not currently sexually active, got the HPV vaccine, or have gone through menopause, you still need regular Pap tests. Experts recommend:⁴

• Women 21–29 get a Pap test every 3 years
• Women 30–65 get:
  • A Pap test every 3 years, or
  • An HPV test every 5 years, or
  • A Pap and HPV test together (called co-testing) every 5 years

Women older than 65 need a Pap test if they have never been tested, or if they have not been tested after age 60. ⁴

HPV tests are recommended for women 30 and older. Although HPV is common in women younger than 30, it usually goes away on its own in these women. Pap tests combined with HPV tests, or HPV tests alone, are most useful for women 30 and older.⁴

Some women may need Pap or HPV testing more often.

Who does not need to get regular Pap or HPV tests?

The only women who may not need regular Pap or HPV tests are:⁴

• Women older than 65 who have had three normal Pap tests or two normal co-tests in a row within the last 10 years, with the most recent test happening within the last 5 years, and who have been told by their doctors that they don’t need to be tested anymore
• Women who do not have a cervix (usually because of a hysterectomy) and who do not have a history of cervical cancer or abnormal Pap test results

Always talk to your doctor or nurse before stopping regular Pap and HPV tests.

I had a hysterectomy.

Do I still need Pap and HPV tests?

Even if you have had a hysterectomy, you may need a Pap and HPV test. It depends on the type of hysterectomy you had and your health history. Talk to your doctor or nurse about whether you need Pap and HPV tests.⁴

• If you no longer have a cervix because you had a hysterectomy for reasons other than abnormal cervical cells or cervical cancer, you do not need Pap and HPV tests.
• If you had a hysterectomy because of abnormal cervical cells or cervical cancer, you should continue to get Pap and HPV tests. Talk to your doctor or nurse about how often you should have Pap and HPV tests.
• If you had your uterus removed but you still have a cervix (this type of hysterectomy is not common), you need regular Pap and HPV tests until you are 65 and have had three normal Pap tests or two normal co-tests in a row within the last 10 years with the last test happening within 5 years.

How often do I need to get a Pap test or Pap and HPV tests together?

It depends on your age and health history. Talk with your doctor or nurse to find out how often you need to get a Pap test or Pap and HPV tests together. Most women can follow these current recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force:⁴

• If you are 21 to 29 years old, you should get a Pap test every 3 years.
• If you are 30 to 65 years old, you should get:
  • A Pap test every 3 years, or
  • An HPV test every 5 years, or
  • A Pap test and HPV test together (called co-testing) every 5 years
• If you are older than 65, ask your doctor whether you can stop having Pap and HPV tests.

Who needs Pap and HPV tests more often?

Your doctor or nurse may recommend getting Pap and HPV tests more often if:⁴

• You have had treatment for abnormal Pap results or cervical cancer in the past. Women with a medical history of precancerous cells or cervical cancer may need to be tested more often, because their medical history puts them at higher risk in the future.
• You are living with HIV. Women who are living with HIV (the virus that leads to AIDS) are at higher risk of cervical cancer and other cervical diseases because of a weakened immune system. All women living with HIV should get an initial Pap test at the time of the HIV diagnosis and a second Pap test (or Pap and HPV test if you are older than 30) 12 months later. Some experts recommend a second Pap test or Pap and HPV test 6 months later, so talk to your doctor or nurse. After three normal Pap tests in a row, women living with HIV can get follow-up Pap tests every 3 years.⁵
• Your mother was exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) while pregnant with you. Daughters, and possibly granddaughters, of women who took DES while pregnant with them have a higher risk of cervical cancer and some other types of cancer. Learn more about DES and cancer from the National Cancer Institute website.
• You have a weakened immune system because of organ transplant, chemotherapy, or steroid use. HPV may not go away on its own in a person with a weakened immune system.

Are Pap and HPV tests painful?

Some women find Pap and HPV tests uncomfortable, but the tests should not be painful. You will feel pressure as your doctor or nurse puts the speculum (a tool that helps your doctor or nurse see your cervix) into your vagina.

If you have never had sexual intercourse or if you have had pain when something is put into your vagina, you can ask your doctor or nurse to use a smaller speculum.

You can also help lessen or prevent pain by urinating before the test to empty your bladder or by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen, about an hour before your Pap or HPV test.

Can I get a Pap or HPV test if I’ve been sexually assaulted in the past?

Yes. If you were sexually assaulted or abused in the past, and this experience makes medical exams difficult for you, talk to your doctor or nurse first.

Before the test, while you are still fully clothed, tell your doctor or nurse that you’ve been assaulted in the past and that you have concerns about the test. It may be difficult to lie on an exam table with your legs in footrests (cradles for your feet that help keep your legs bent and open) or to have a doctor or nurse put a speculum (a tool that helps your doctor or nurse see your cervix) into your vagina. Your doctor or nurse will talk with you about ways to make the Pap or HPV test easier.

How do I prepare for a Pap or HPV test?

You do not have to do anything special to prepare for a Pap or HPV test. Also, you should not douche before a Pap or HPV test. Most doctors do not recommend douching for any reason. You also should not put anything in or around your vagina to clean it, other than soap and water on the outside of your vagina.

Can I get a Pap or HPV test when I am having my period?

Yes, you can get a Pap or HPV test during your period. It’s better to schedule the test for a time when you do not expect to have your period. But it’s also better to get a Pap test at any time than to miss your appointment because of your period.  

Depending on how heavy your flow is, your period may affect the results of the Pap or HPV test. If you’re uncomfortable or not sure, call your doctor or nurse before your appointment.

What happens during Pap and HPV tests?

Your doctor or nurse can do a Pap test in the exam room of a doctor’s office. You will lie down on your back on an exam table. You will place your feet on either side of the table in footrests (cradles for your feet that help keep your legs bent and open). Your doctor or nurse will put a tool called a speculum into your vagina (you may feel pressure) and will open it to see your cervix.

Your doctor or nurse will use a special stick or soft brush to take a few cells from the surface of and inside your cervix and vagina. Your doctor or nurse will put the cells on a glass slide or in a small container and send them to a lab for testing. If your doctor or nurse orders an HPV test, the cells taken for your Pap test are tested for HPV at the same time.

Pap and HPV tests usually last about 5 minutes. You may have some spotting (light bleeding from the vagina) afterward.

When will I get my Pap and HPV test results?

Usually, it takes 1 to 3 weeks to get Pap and HPV test results. Most of the time, test results are normal.

If you do not get the results of your Pap and HPV tests 3 weeks after the test, call your doctor’s office to get the results. If the doctor or nurse tells you to schedule another appointment to follow up on abnormal results, be sure to go to the appointment.

What do my Pap test results mean?

Your Pap test results will say one of these three things:

• Normal. The cells collected from your cervix during the Pap test look like they should and you do not have to do anything until your next Pap test.
• Unclear. Your doctor does not know whether the cells collected from your cervix are normal or abnormal. If results are unclear, your doctor may do more testing right away to rule out any problems, or your doctor may have you come back in 6 months or a year for another Pap test.
• Abnormal. The cells collected from your cervix during your Pap test look abnormal. Abnormal Pap test results do not mean you have cancer, so your doctor must do other tests to find out what should happen next. Your doctor may do another Pap test right away or, if the cell changes are minor, wait 6 months or a year before doing another Pap test. If the test finds more serious changes in the cells of your cervix, your doctor will do more tests, such as a colposcopy and biopsy.

What is a colposcopy?

During a colposcopy, your doctor or nurse takes a closer look at abnormal areas on your cervix and uses an instrument with a light and magnifier (called a colposcope) to make the abnormal areas easier to see. Your doctor or nurse might use a small amount of vinegar on your cervix to make any abnormal areas stand out.

If there is an abnormal area on the cervix, your doctor or nurse will perform a biopsy (remove a sample of tissue from your cervix) to check for cancer cells. Results of these tests will help your doctor or nurse decide on the best treatment to recommend.

What causes “unclear” or “abnormal” Pap test results?

A Pap test could come back “unclear” or “abnormal” for many reasons. Most often, abnormal cell changes are caused by HPV. HPV is an STI that can lead to cervical cancer.

Other reasons you may have Pap test results that are “unclear” or “abnormal” include:⁶

• An infection, such as a yeast infection, or inflammation
• Growths or cysts that are benign (not cancerous)
• Changes in hormones, such as during pregnancy or menopause
• Smoking, which may increase the risk of an HPV infection developing into cervical cancer. Get tips for women about quitting smoking at women.smokefree.gov.
• Problems with your immune system caused by certain medicines or health problems, such as diabetes, cancer, HIV, or autoimmune diseases

Do Pap tests have risks?

Yes. Although Pap tests are very safe, they do have limits.

• The Pap test may not find abnormal cells that are actually there. This means your doctor may tell you your cervical cells are normal, but the test missed a problem with the cells. This can delay the discovery and treatment of abnormal cells of the cervix. But having regular Pap tests increases your chances of finding problems. Cervical cancer usually takes many years — on average 10 to 20 years — to develop.⁷ If a Pap test misses abnormal cells, your doctor or nurse will probably find them on your next Pap test. Therefore, it is important to have Pap tests on the recommended schedule for your age and medical history.
• The Pap test results may report abnormal cells that are not really there. This means your doctor may tell you that your cervical cells are abnormal, but they are actually normal. There is no way to know that the cells are normal without further testing. Therefore, your doctor may do another Pap test or a different test to find out more. If the next Pap test or other test comes back normal, you don’t have to do anything until your next Pap test is scheduled.

What do my HPV test results mean?

Your HPV test results will show whether you have HPV and what type of HPV it is. Researchers know of about a dozen types of HPV, out of more than 200, that can cause cervical cancer.⁸

HPV test results are usually given with Pap test results. Having the two tests together (called co-testing) can help your doctor figure out if you need to be tested more often or need different tests.

If you do not have HPV and your Pap test results are normal, you can probably wait to be tested again for 5 years.

Can a Pap test tell me whether I have a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?

No. A Pap test is not used to find STIs. A Pap test is used to find abnormal cells that may cause cervical cancer. You must ask your doctor to test you for STIs if you want to have STI testing.

If you tell your doctor you would like to be tested for other STIs, your doctor can collect samples of fluid from your cervix to test for common STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. You will need blood tests to test for other STIs.

How can I lower my chances of getting cervical cancer?

You can lower your chances of getting cervical cancer in several ways:

• Get regular Pap tests. Regular Pap tests help your doctor find cell changes and treat any unhealthy cells before they turn into cancer.
• Get regular Pap and HPV tests together or an HPV test alone (if you are between 30 and 65 years old). Doctors recommend getting an HPV test or co-testing (getting a Pap and HPV test together) for most women between 30 and 65.
• Get the HPV vaccine. Cervical cancer is usually caused by types of HPV that are passed from person to person through genital contact. Most women do not have symptoms of HPV, and HPV sometimes goes away on its own. If HPV does not go away on its own, it can cause changes in the cells of the cervix that can lead to cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine prevents you from getting most cancer-causing types of HPV. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the HPV vaccine for people ages 9 through 45.
• Take steps to lower your risk. If you have sex, lower your risk of getting HPV with the following steps:
  • Use condoms. Condoms are the best way to prevent STIs when you have sex. HPV can happen in female and male genital areas that are not protected by condoms. But research shows that condom use is linked to lower cervical cancer rates.^9,10 Also, the HPV vaccine does not replace or decrease the need to wear condoms. Make sure to put the condom on before the penis touches the vagina, mouth, or anus. Other methods of birth control, like birth control pills, shots, implants, or diaphragms, will not protect you from HPV or other STIs.
  • Get tested. Be sure you and your partner are tested for STIs. Talk to each other about the test results before you have sex.
  • Be monogamous. Having sex with only one partner can lower your risk of STIs. After being tested for STIs, be faithful to each other. That means that you have sex only with each other and no one else.
  • Limit your number of sex partners. Your risk of getting STIs goes up with the number of sexual partners you have.
  • Do not douche. Douching removes some of the normal bacteria in the vagina that protect you from infection. This may increase your risk of getting STIs.
  • Be aware of how much alcohol you drink and keep control of your own drink. Some people use alcohol or drugs as a way to make a person drunk or high. Someone who is drunk, drugged, or high on drugs is unable to consent or understand what is happening. This puts you at risk of sexual assault and possible exposure to STIs.

These steps work best when used together. No single step can protect you from cervical cancer.

How can I get free or low-cost Pap and HPV tests?

Most insurance plans cover Pap and HPV tests with no copay, coinsurance, or deductible.

• If you have insurance, check with your insurance provider to find out what’s included in your plan.
• If you don’t have insurance, find a program near you that offers free or low-cost Pap and HPV tests.
• If you have Medicare, find out how often Medicare covers Pap and HPV tests and pelvic exams.
• If you have Medicaid, the benefits covered are different in each state, but certain benefits must be covered. Check with your state’s Medicaid program to find out what’s covered.

Did we answer your question about Pap and HPV tests?

For more information about Pap and HPV tests, call the OWH Helpline at 1-800-994-9662 or contact the following organizations:

• National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, CDC, HHS
  Phone number: 1-800-232-4636
• National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, HHS
  Phone number: 1-800-422-6237
• American Cancer Society
  Phone number: 1-800-227-2345
• National Cervical Cancer Coalition
  Phone number: 1-800-685-5531
• Planned Parenthood
  Phone number: 1-800-230-7526

Sources

1. Van Dyne, E. A., Henley, S. J., Saraiya, M., Thomas, C. C., Markowitz, L. E., Benard, V. B. (2018). Trends in human papillomavirus–associated cancers — United States, 1999–2015. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), 67, 918–924.
2. Viens, L. J., Henley, S. J., Watson, M., Markowitz, L. E., Thomas, C. C., Thompson, T. D., … Saraiya, M. (2016). Human papillomavirus–associated cancers – United States, 2008-2012. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), 65(26), 661–666.
3. Dobbs, S. P., Asmussen, T., Nunns, D., Hollingworth, J., Brown, L. J., & Ireland, D. (2000). Does histological incomplete excision of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia following large loop excision of transformation zone increase recurrence rates? A six year cytological follow up. Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 107(10), 1298–1301.
4. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2018). Cervical cancer: Screening.
5. AIDSinfo. (2018). Guidelines for the prevention and treatment of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected adults and adolescents.
6. National Cancer Institute. (2017). Understanding cervical changes: Next steps after an abnormal screening test.
7. Basu, P., Mittal, S., Vale, D. B., & Kharaji, Y. C. (2018). Secondary prevention of cervical cancer. Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 47, 73–85.
8. Schiffman, M., Wentzensen, N., Wacholder, S., Kinney, W., Gage, J. C., & Castle, P. E. (2011). Human papillomavirus testing in the prevention of cervical cancer. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 103(5), 368–383.
9. Winer, R. L., Hughes, J. P., Feng, Q., O’Reilly, S., Kiviat, N. B., Holmes, K. K., & Koutsky, L. A. (2006). Condom use and the risk of genital human papillomavirus infection in young women. New England Journal of Medicine, 354(25), 2645–2654.
10. Munk, A. C., Gudlaugsson, E., Malpica, A., Fiane, B., Lovslett, K. I., Kruse, A-J., … Baak, J. P. A. (2012). Consistent condom use increases the regression rate of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2-3. PLoS One, 7(9), 45114.

The Office on Women’s Health is grateful for the medical review by:

• Dolly Penn, M.D., M.S.C.R., Medical Officer, Healthcare Assessment Research Branch, Healthcare Delivery Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute
• Abbey B. Berenson, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Women’s Health, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch

All material contained on these pages are free of copyright restrictions and maybe copied, reproduced, or duplicated without permission of the Office on Women’s Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Citation of the source is appreciated.

Page last updated:
February 22, 2021

What Should I Know About Cervical Cancer Screening?

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“If I didn’t go to that appointment, I might not be around for my kids,” says Cindy. Her cervical cancer screening test found precancerous cells. She shares her story in this video.

The HPV test and the Pap test can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early.

• The HPV test looks for the virus (human papillomavirus) that can cause cell changes on the cervix.
• The Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for precancers, cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately.

Both tests can be done in a doctor’s office or clinic. During the Pap test, the doctor will use a plastic or metal instrument, called a speculum, to look inside your vagina. This helps the doctor examine the vagina and the cervix, and collect a few cells and mucus from the cervix and the area around it. The cells are sent to a laboratory.

• If you are getting a Pap test, the cells will be checked to see if they look normal.
• If you are getting an HPV test, the cells will be tested for HPV.

What is cervical precancer? When there are cervical cells that look abnormal but are not yet cancerous, it is called cervical precancer. These abnormal cells may be the first sign of cancer that develops years later. Cervical precancer usually doesn’t cause pain or other symptoms. It is found with a pelvic exam or a Pap test.

If you have a low income or do not have health insurance, you may be able to get a free or low-cost screening test through the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.

Find out if you qualify

When to Get Screened

If You Are 21 to 29 Years Old

You should start getting Pap tests at age 21. If your Pap test result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.

If You Are 30 to 65 Years Old

Talk to your doctor about which testing option is right for you—

• An HPV test only. This is called primary HPV testing. If your result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
• An HPV test along with the Pap test. This is called co-testing. If both of your results are normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
• A Pap test only. If your result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.

If You Are Older Than 65

Your doctor may tell you that you don’t need to be screened anymore if—

• You have had normal screening test results for several years, and
• You have not had a cervical precancer in the past, or
• You have had your cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous conditions, like fibroids.

No special preparation is needed before you have an HPV test.

If you are getting a Pap test, you can take steps to make sure the test results are accurate. Avoid intercourse, douching, and using vaginal medicines or spermicidal foam for 2 days before the test. If you had sex before the test, go to the appointment as planned and let the doctor know.

If you have your period, don’t worry. Both tests can still be done at this time.

Test Results

It can take as long as three weeks to receive your test results. If your test shows that something might not be normal, your doctor will contact you and figure out how best to follow up. There are many reasons why test results might not be normal. It usually does not mean you have cancer.

If your test results show cells that are not normal and may become cancer, your doctor will let you know if you need to be treated. In most cases, treatment prevents cervical cancer from developing. It is important to follow up with your doctor right away to learn more about your test results and receive any treatment that may be needed.

If your test results are normal, your chance of getting cervical cancer in the next few years is very low. Your doctor may tell you that you can wait several years for your next cervical cancer screening test. But you should still go to the doctor regularly for a checkup.

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Elena

I know that a gynecological examination is not always easy for girls. And I am glad that I have been seeing Marina Trofimovna for more than 5 years. I recommend her as a specialist, because she is a true professional in her field. In addition to the gynecological examination, she also performs an ultrasound on her own (which is very convenient). She is always very attentive and responsive, listens tactfully, prescribes competent treatment and will do everything possible, if only you were healthy. A doctor who inspires confidence is a rarity in our time. Therefore, if you still choose a specialist, feel free to make an appointment, you will not regret it.

Mar 26 2021

I am very grateful to the doctor Simonova E.B. for her compassionate approach to the patient. When all the doctors seemed to turn their backs on me, she listened. Prescribed the right treatment, referred to the right specialists. Wow, I’ve been diagnosed. I am very grateful to the neurologist Ryabinin V.V. – a doctor from God.

3 Apr. 2017

Getmanova G.P.

She was treated by the therapist Ponomareva Larisa Vladimirovna for ARVI. The doctor is very attentive, responsible, qualified, and a very pleasant person. The treatment quickly got me back on my feet. I am glad that IMMA has specialists of this level. Thank you very much Larisa Vladimirovna.

Dec 28 2022

Kuzmina Ksenia

I express my gratitude to doctors Simonova E.B. and Ryabinin V.V. on behalf of his grandmother Bazyut Lilia Sergeevna. She came with a serious problem – abdominal pain and a total weight loss of 17 kg. Doctors even from a respected institute could not help her for a year. However, thanks to the joint work of the doctors of the IMMA clinic, my grandmother recovered. In the truest sense of the word, she has already gained 7. 5 kg, she eats well and does not suffer from pain. Many thanks for the high professionalism and attentive attitude!

Dec 18 2018

Arcady

Ekaterina Borisovna is a doctor by vocation. Competently conducts treatment for such a difficult disease as UC. Great professional and just a really nice person. Knows how to work quickly and is always ready to help!

Jan 16 2021

Zyryanova I.

Svetlana Pavlovna, thank you for your professionalism, for your attentive attitude towards children, for your ability to give advice and recommendations. You have been with you for many years and you are watching all three children. The best pediatrician clinic!

Jun 17 2020

Olga

Excellent doctor, helped me deal with problems with the gastrointestinal tract without unnecessary additional tests, everything is clear and as needed. Now I’m recovering, but my health has improved significantly.

Mar 8 2022

Sudakova O.A.

An excellent, highly qualified doctor and a wonderful person. Thank you very much for the excellent treatment.

Dec 17 2018

Tatyana

I want to express my deep gratitude to Lapteva Svetlana Pavlovna. This is one of the best pediatricians not only in this clinic, but also in Moscow. I try to enroll my children only to her. This is a 100% specialist in his field, doing his job not only professionally, but also with soul. Always responsible, attentive, competent and loving her work. I trust her opinion and listen to her advice. Thank you very much for your work!!!!

Dec 8 2018

Parmouth G.

Thank you for having such doctors! Ekaterina Borisovna is a very attentive doctor, quickly responds to the situation, keeps everything under control. It’s nice to feel that you are taken care of, in our time it is a rarity.

Jan 20 2020

Anna

I have been seeing Marina Trofimovna for many years. Very knowledgeable doctor, no questions left unanswered. I will recommend to friends!

27 Apr. 2021

Marina

Ekaterina Borisovna, Professional with a capital letter. Very caring, knowledgeable and compassionate doctor. Her work and professionalism deserve only the highest praise.

Aug 6 2020

Marat

Ekaterina Borisovna turned out to be quite by accident, but I don’t regret it at all. For two days I was tormented by a temperature, and I could not go on sick leave due to the large amount of work at work. When he came to the reception, E.B. I was thoroughly examined as expected, sent for tests and consulted. Everything was very professional and competent. Everything that E.B. prescribed for me. helped me effectively. I refused sick leave, but E.B. She called me and clarified my state of health, I was very pleased. E.B. I wish you all the best and great success in your work!

Jun 15 2018

Robert Greenberg

Ekaterina Borisova is an incredible specialist and a great person. For three years I suffered from various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (erosion, inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, etc.), and, frankly, I already gave up on myself. Couldn’t eat, couldn’t sleep, and other moments. Not a single doctor understood what was happening to me, why I felt so bad and where the legs of my problems grow from. But I was lucky, I went to the right doctor. First, they listened to me carefully (and this is generally a rarity, to be honest), then they conducted many tests and diagnostics (absolutely justified, and not for show), and every source of my ailments was found and eliminated. It took me about 5 months to feel better, and that’s more to blame for the pandemic and personal moments because of which I interrupted the treatment. I want to note that Ekaterina Borisovna even suggests which manufacturer (country) to buy medicines from, so that they work better. He also remembers your diagnosis and name, which is also nice. Thank you, my deepest respect and sincere appreciation for your competence, ability to cheer and personal interest in the result.

Jul 17 2020

Olga

It was always very difficult for me to go to women’s doctors. I tried to go to them as little as possible, forcing myself literally with kicks). But Marina Trofimovna is such a neat, calm, attentive and professional doctor that I have radically changed my attitude to visiting a gynecologist) Now only to her! Thank you)

Jun 9 2022

Olga

I got to the doctor on the recommendation, I did not regret it. Thank you, Marina Trofimovna, for the opportunity to visit a gynecologist without fear and doubt!

May 6, 2021

Olga

Thanks to Marina Trofimovna! very attentive doctor.

May 22, 2020

Tatyana M.

I would like to thank Ekaterina Borisovna Simonova from the IMMA Maryino clinic for her sensitive attitude and high professionalism!!! How lucky for me and my son that we got to SUCH A DOCTOR !!!!! Polite, explains everything, after which there are no questions left. THANK YOU that you treat your work 5++++++!

25 Apr. 2017

Elena

Hello! I want to thank Marina Trofimovna for her attentive attitude and sensitive approach. Thank you!

Jan 7 2020

Irina

Svetlana Pavlovna, thank you!!!

Oct 9 2017

What do the smears mean? Encyclopedia of the IVF Clinic

Any visit by a woman to a gynecologist is always accompanied by taking swabs. What do they mean? The doctor obstetrician-gynecologist of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education of St. Petersburg Marina Vladislavovna BONDARENKO tells.

Any visit by a woman to a gynecologist is always accompanied by a swab. What do they mean? The doctor obstetrician-gynecologist of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education of St. Petersburg Marina Vladislavovna Bondarenko tells.

Flora smear

Flora smear is the most common test in gynecological practice. It is taken both at the first visit to the doctor and at subsequent visits. If a woman is healthy, then such a prophylactic smear is done with a frequency of about once every 3 months. In cases where it is necessary to confirm a particular disease or test the effectiveness of treatment, it makes sense to examine it at every visit to the doctor.

Before the procedure, you should not go to the toilet “in a small way” for 2-3 hours. Otherwise, you may wash away bacteria and epithelium, which are important for a correct diagnosis. For a day, you must refrain from intimate contacts. Also, do not use spermicidal creams or douche.

A prophylactic flora swab is taken from a healthy woman approximately once every three months. When performed correctly, a smear on the flora can say a lot. First of all, determine the number of leukocytes. If there are a lot of white blood cells, then you may have inflammation. The type of microflora is also determined in this smear. It is directly related to the phase of the menstrual cycle. In the analysis, there may be different cells of the rod or cocci. If there is inflammation, then there will always be a lot of cells, since they are rejected faster. “Cluster cells” characteristic of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) may appear. This also suggests that it is time to take care of your health. When gonococci or Trichomonas appear in the analyzes, then you definitely should not put off a visit to the doctor. Although it should be noted that only those gonococci that “sit” inside the cell are dangerous. But extracellular ones can be present in a smear in an absolutely healthy woman.

You also need to remember that the diagnosis of gonorrhea can only be made after inoculation on special media. So I’ll have to take another smear. Before this, treatment cannot be started.

If filaments of mycelium are found in your flora smear, then this is a characteristic sign of candidiasis, in other words, “thrush”. However, for the final statement of that diagnosis, it is also not possible to do without sowing.

“Sterility” swab

At the gynecologist’s appointment, you can take a swab to check the degree of purity and hormonal levels. It determines the composition of the contents of the vagina, which is normally represented by a secret, various epithelial cells and coccal microflora. In order to properly conduct the study, you need to use a sterile Tampax-type swab, which is removed after 8 hours. It is most convenient to introduce it at night and remove it in the morning at a gynecologist’s appointment. The swab is sent to the laboratory in a sterile tube.

The degree of purity as a result of a smear is expressed in numbers:

1 and 2 are indicators of health, and 3 and 4 indicate the presence of colpitis – inflammation of the vagina.

There is also a smear for hormonal levels. It shows how during the menstrual cycle the female body is affected by sex hormones – estrogens and progesterone. According to its results, it is possible to establish how correctly and in what quantity they are produced.

A variant of this smear is the Threat swab. It is used during pregnancy to determine the risk of termination.

Pap smear or Pap test

Papanicolaou test or Pap test is needed to detect abnormalities in the cells of the cervix. In our country, it is also called a smear for atypical cells or cytology. All these are “names” of one analysis.

A Pap smear should not be done during menstruation or if there is inflammation, as the result may be false. During the day, as well as when taking a smear for flora, you should avoid intimacy, do not use candles or tampons.

In a cytological smear, the size, shape, number and location of cells are evaluated. In young girls, according to this analysis, it is possible to assess the correct production of estrogens. A smear is considered normal or negative when all cells are of normal size and shape and there are no abnormal cells. Atypical cells are “wrong” cells. They have the wrong shape, size, and they are often not located as they should.

In the first half of the cycle, the cells are located separately, in the second half, the cells seem to “bunch”. Therefore, such a smear is sometimes called “dirty”. To describe an abnormal smear, cytologists use special terms: dysplasia of 1, 2, 3 degrees, atypia. With grade 1 dysplasia, it is necessary to repeat the study after 3-6 months. Such a result can be with untreated chlamydia, gonorrhea or trichomoniasis. Therefore, it is necessary to repeat the procedure after a course of treatment.

In the case when dysplasia was found in the previous smear, or the woman or her partner suffered from herpes or genital warts, an additional examination should be done – colposcopy.

If grade 2 or 3 dysplasia is detected, then a biopsy is indispensable in this case. At the same time, a small piece of tissue is taken from the changed area. If atypical cells are detected, consultation with an oncologist is necessary.

An abnormal smear does not always mean that a woman has cervical cancer. In inflammation, cells can also look abnormal. But after treatment, the smear usually becomes normal.

According to the latest recommendations of the American Cancer Society, which Russian gynecologists also adhere to, a Pap test should be performed for all women from 20 years old once a year. If the result is negative twice, then the analysis can be repeated at least once every 3 years, up to 65 years. Women with a large number of sexual partners, infertility, menstrual irregularities, and genital herpes need more frequent examinations. As well as ladies taking hormonal contraceptives and obese.

The same category includes those who have ever found the papilloma virus. It is his role that is currently considered the main one in the development of cervical cancer. Remember also that if you decide to use an intrauterine device, then before setting it up, you must also take a swab for atypical cells.

Latent Infection Swab

These swabs are used to detect infections that are not detected by flora testing. These include chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, mycoplasmosis, genital herpes, appillomavirus and cytomegalovirus infections. In addition, this research method helps in the detection of candidiasis.

There are a fairly large number of different methods for diagnosing such infections. The most reliable is the PCR method – polymerase chain reaction, in which the infection is determined by its DNA.

PCR diagnostics are very informative, but in some cases there is a possibility of false results. Then it makes sense to supplement the examination with crops on special nutrient media. In order to minimize false results, it is better to have your own permanent gynecologist and be examined in the same laboratory.

At the MAMA Clinic, you can undergo a complete examination to find out the causes of infertility or clarify the diagnosis. You can discuss the required scope of the examination with the doctor of the Clinic at the initial appointment.