What should you pay attention to before cervical cancer screening?
Apr 23, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Cervical cancer screening should avoid the menstrual period, abstain from sexual intercourse, and refrain from vaginal medication for a short period before the test. During cervical cancer screening, epithelial secretions are collected from the cervix to observe cellular changes as part of the screening process. If a woman is menstruating, menstrual blood may flow from the cervical opening into the vagina, which can interfere with the insertion and operation of the speculum during the examination.
Cervical cancer screening requires avoiding the menstrual period, abstaining from sexual intercourse, and refraining from vaginal medication shortly before the test. The details are as follows:
1. Avoid the menstrual period
Cervical cancer screening involves collecting epithelial secretions from the cervix to observe cellular changes for early detection of cervical cancer. If a woman is menstruating, menstrual blood may flow through the cervical opening into the vagina, interfering with the insertion of the speculum during examination. It may also contaminate the specimen, reducing the accuracy of test results.
2. Avoid sexual intercourse
Having sexual intercourse before the screening may introduce male semen and external bacteria into the reproductive tract. Additionally, vigorous sexual activity may cause cervical congestion or injury, which could interfere with proper specimen collection.
3. Refrain from vaginal medication shortly before the test
If a woman has an existing vaginal infection, treatment should be completed prior to screening. Vaginal medications can leave residues that may mix with the specimen and alter the nature of vaginal secretions, leading to inaccurate test results.
In addition, women should avoid douching before the test. After the examination, it's important to maintain genital hygiene and minimize pressure or irritation to the genital area.
