How is cervical cancer screening performed?
Disease description:
Recently, I've been having some health issues and would like to get a cervical screening. Could you please tell me how exactly this examination is performed?
Cervical cancer screening is a method of early cancer detection that can identify early signs of cervical cancer. The cervical cancer screening program includes liquid-based cytology and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing. The specific procedure involves positioning the patient in the lithotomy position, placing a treatment drape under her buttocks, and disinfecting the external genitalia and vagina with iodophor. A speculum is then inserted into the patient's vagina. A sterile dry cotton swab is used to dry the cervix, and a sampling brush is used to collect cells from the squamocolumnar junction of the cervix, which are then placed into a specimen container. If the patient experiences discomfort during the examination, she should promptly inform the physician to avoid adverse reactions.