It is very important that all women have a cytology every 3-5 years to verify that everything is going well and, in case of any problem, to be able to identify it in time
Cytology is a very important test that every woman should have from time to time. Therefore, below we will solve some of the most frequently asked questions about it.
Remember that it is very important to perform tests to maintain our health in all possible areas. In the case of women, it is necessary to carry out a cytology every 3-5 years.
What does it consist of?
Cytology is a super simple exam, simply take a small sample of tissue from the cervix with the help of a speculum, and gently brush the inside.
This sample will be analyzed in a laboratory in order to identify whether abnormal or cancerous cells are present.
Why should I take this exam?
It is important for all women to have this test done to diagnose cancer cells early, to quickly treat cervical cancer if abnormalities occur.
How do I know if I should take this exam?
Without exception, if you have already had sexual intercourse or are over the age of 25 it is an obligation that you undergo cytology, at least once every five years. Although it is best that you consult with your gynecologist the most appropriate periodicity in your case.
What are the recommendations that I should follow when performing cytology?
It is essential that at the time you go to perform the cytology you are not with menstruation, you must also take at least a day without having sexual intercourse, you should also avoid the use of ovules and vaginal creams, all this is why you need that the vagina is free of other flows that can alter the examinations.
Will I feel pain when I have cytology?
It is not painful at all, it can be a little uncomfortable for you since you are showing your private parts to a stranger, but it is normal.
Do I have to pay for cytology?
If you are affiliated with any EPS, it will be totally free, you just make an appointment with the general doctor and he will program the order for the cytology.
Without these affiliates you can do it in a private laboratory, regularly the price is not high and it covers the examination and the assessment of the result.
How long should I wait for the results?
If you do them with your EPS, it can take from 3 to 8 business days, when they are done in private laboratories, they are usually delivered faster. It depends, in short, on the health center you go to.
What do I do if my tests result in the presence of abnormal cells?
The doctor who gives the advice for the cytology reading schedules another appointment to perform other exams, such as colposcopy, biopsy and others, depending on the case that has been presented.
If my result was good, can I be calm?
The important thing about cytology is identifying an early sign of cancer, so just because you now get a positive result does not mean you should let your guard down. You should have this exam without fail every 3-5 years.
Important…
Cytology DOES NOT PREVENT UTERINE NECK CANCER! But it helps a lot to identify it in time.
This is where the importance of cytology comeswhen cervical cancer is just beginning, there are no symptoms, these appear when cancer has been invasive, the most common symptoms are:
- Constant vaginal bleeding, maybe after having sex,
- Unusual flow, that is, more than what normally appeared and with blood spots
- Pain or burning during sexual intercourse
As you can see, it is better to be safe than sorry, so if you have already started having sex or you are over 25, you should not wait any longer to go for these tests.