Protect Your Health (Pap Smear)

What is a Pap Smear?

• A pap smear is a simple, quick vaginal examination to check if the cervix (the mouth of the womb) is healthy.
• A special instrument called a speculum is used to hold the vagina open so that the doctor or nurse can see the cervix.
• Some cells are gently wiped off the cervix and sent to a laboratory for testing.
• The results of this test will be sent to your clinic so remember to go back for your results.

Why Should I Go for a Pap Smear?

A pap smear detects abnormal cells that may later become Cancer of the Cervix.

What is Cancer of the Cervix?

• Cancer of the Cervix is one of the most common forms of cancer against women.
• Cancer of the Cervix if detected early can be treated and cured.
• All women are at risk of developing cancer of the cervix.
• The risk of developing Cancer of the Cervix increases as you get older.
• You are still at risk even if:
  • you are not sexually active
  • you are menopausal or have experienced menopause
  • you no longer plan to have children
  • you are sterilized
  • you show no signs or symptoms.

When Should I Go for a Pap Smear?

• You should have a pap smear at least every ten years, starting in your thirties.
• You should have three FREE pap smears, one in your thirties, one in your forties and one in your fifties.
• These FREE pap smears are available at your nearest clinic or health center.

Your Health Rights

You are entitled:

• to three free pap smears in your lifetime, one every ten years, starting in your thirties.
• to be treated with dignity, respect and privacy when going for your pap smear.
• to ask your health provider to explain the procedure to you.

Your Responsibilities

• You must take responsibility for your own health.
• You must go back for the results of your pap smear.
• You must go for any follow up treatment if advised to do so.
• You must give the correct contact details to the health service providers so that they can you if you need further treatment.