If you have ever smelled a pap or there are reasons, you may have some worries – is it hurt? Can it cause long -term damage? Is this really necessary? Recently, a video went viral, claiming that one should never smere papa as it can cause damage to the cervix. But is it true or is it just a myth? We with experts Dr. Renuka Borisa, Advisor, Maternity and Gynecology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, and Dr. Pooja Mehta, Clinical Director, Obstaterix and Gynecology, Margego Asia Hospitals, Gurugram came in contact.

Can a PAP smear cause long -term damage to the cervix?

Both experts say that a pap smear does not harm for a long time. Dr. Borisa states that the process involves scrapping some cells from the cervix gently, causing scarring or permanent injury. Dr. Mehta says that while a regular pap smear is minimally invasive. If combined with biopsy, there is a slight risk of bleeding or infection. However, these incidents are rare.

Possible side effects of a pap smear

Most women do not experience any discomfort during a pap smear, but may have some mild side effects, including:

• Light spotting or bleeding
• Temporary cramps
• Light discomfort during procedure

Dr. Mehta assures that these effects are usually solved within a few hours or by the end of the day.

Is bleeding or discomfort normal after a pap smear? Yes, slight bleeding or spotting is common, especially if the cervix is ​​tender. Some women may also experience minor cramps, but it should be low within a few hours. Dr. Borisa recommends that if heavy bleeding or severe pain occurs, medical attention should be paid.

Conditions that can make the cervix more sensitive to the status of the pap smearithic, can increase the cervical sensitivity during a PAP smear, including:

• Cervical infection (eg, HPV, yeast infection, or STI)
• Cervical inflamm
• Recent delivery or cervical surgery
• Hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy or menopause)

Dr. Mehta explains that in these cases, women may experience more discomfort or bleeding.

Can a PAP smear increase the risk of cervical infection?

Both experts agree that a PAP does not cause smear infection. Dr. Borisa states that when performed in a sterile setting, the risk is negligible. However, Dr. Mehta shares that if an existing infection is present or hygiene is not maintained, bacteria can be introduced to the cervix.

Options for pap smear for cervical cancer screening, pap smear are essential for cervical cancer screening, there are alternative methods:

• HPV testing: High -risk HPV strains detect that can lead to cervical cancer.
• Co-testing: A PAP combines a PAP smear with an HPV test for increased accuracy.
• Visual inspection with acetic acid (through): a method used in low-resources settings.
• Self-Sampling HPV Test: Allow women to collect their own samples at home, making the screening more accessible.

Dr. Mehta explains that self-sampling HPV tests are effective and convenient, especially for women who face obstacles in clinical screening.

When to attract the attention of therapy after a pap smear

If symptoms such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, or prolonged discomfort are beyond two days, it is important to consult a doctor. Dr. Borisa warns that these symptoms may indicate a health issue, such as infection or cervical injury, which requires medical evaluation.

Pap smears are a safe and effective tool for early detection of cervical cancer. While slight side effects such as spotting and discomfort are common, they do not cause long -term damage. If you are experiencing unusual symptoms, you should seek medical advice. If you worry about the process, discuss them with your doctor.

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