How is a cervical smear performed?
Oct 25, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
A cervical smear refers to a cervical scraping test, which can be used to screen for cervical precancerous lesions and cervical cancer. This procedure requires professional expertise, so it is recommended to undergo the test at a正规 hospital under the guidance of a qualified physician to avoid improper handling that may cause bodily harm. Note that sexual intercourse and vaginal medication should be avoided for 24 hours prior to the test to prevent interference with the results.
Generally, a cervical smear refers to a cervical cytology test, which can be used to screen for cervical precancerous lesions and cervical cancer. The specific procedure is as follows:
1. The patient assumes the lithotomy position to fully expose the external cervical os.
2. The cervix is dilated using a cervical speculum, then a thin, long spatula or brush is gently used to scrape cells from the cervical epithelium.
3. The collected cell sample is transferred onto a glass slide and fixed in 95% ethanol solution.
4. After 15 minutes, the slide is removed, stained using the Papanicolaou (Pap) staining method, and examined under a microscope.
This procedure requires professional expertise. It is recommended to undergo the test at a正规 medical facility under the guidance of a qualified physician to avoid improper handling that could cause bodily harm. Note that sexual intercourse and vaginal medication should be avoided for at least 24 hours prior to the test to prevent interference with results.
