The Importance of Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV types 16 and 18. HPV is a common virus transmitted through sexual contact. Currently, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Thailand (see detailed statistics from the HPV Information Centre). Therefore, regular Pap Smear Tests and pelvic examinations are a crucial step in the early detection and effective treatment of cervical cancer, vaginitis, cervicitis, and other gynecological conditions.
In addition to HPV vaccination, regular screening for cervical cancer, including a Pap Smear Test and HPV DNA test, is essential for women's health. Below are the two main types of cervical cancer screening methods offered at our clinic:
- [G112] Conventional Pap Smear (Pap Test): This test detects precancerous and cancerous cells on the cervix. A healthcare provider gently collects cells from the cervix using a tool and smears them onto a glass slide for microscopic examination. It has a sensitivity of 50-75%.
Price: 2,000 THB
Results: Available in 3-5 days. - [GH245] ThinPrep Pap Test + HPV DNA Test (Co-Testing): This is a combined screening method that includes:
- ThinPrep Pap Test: A liquid-based cytology procedure where the cells are collected and rinsed in a ThinPrep solution before laboratory examination. This method offers higher precision than the conventional method, with a sensitivity of 60-85% and specificity of 90-95%.
- HPV DNA Test: Detects the presence of high-risk types of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer, with a sensitivity of approximately 90-95%.
Co-testing with both the Pap Test and HPV DNA Test enhances the effectiveness of cervical cancer screening by detecting both current cellular abnormalities and the presence of high-risk HPV types, offering the highest sensitivity of 95-100%.
Price: 3,400 THB
Results: Available in 7 days.
Who Should Undergo Cervical Cancer Screening?
- Women aged 25 and over: Regular screening with an HPV DNA test or Co-Testing every 5 years, or a Pap Test alone every 3 years.
- Women over 65: Screening can stop if previous regular screenings in the past 10 years were normal, with the most recent test done within the previous 3-5 years, and no history of CIN2 or more serious diagnosis within the past 25 years.
- Women with a history of CIN2 or more serious diagnosis: Surveillance screening for at least 25 years.
- High-risk women (HIV, immunocompromised, or on immunosuppressive drugs):
- Aged 21-29: Annual Pap Tests, extended to every 3 years after 3 consecutive normal results.
- Aged 30 and over: Annual Co-Testing, extended to every 3 years after 3 consecutive normal results, with lifelong screening recommended.
*References: Cervical Cancer Screening for Individuals at Average Risk: 2020 Guideline Update from the American Cancer Society (ACS) and CDC Cervical Cancer Recommendations in Special Populations.
Preparing for a Pap Smear (Pap Test)
- Clean Your Intimate Area: Use a gentle soap for the external vaginal area. Avoid internal douching and refrain from using powders or sprays.
- Choose the Right Timing: Avoid scheduling during menstruation. Wait at least 7 days after your period ends.
- Hair Removal Consideration: Shaving is unnecessary and can hinder the effectiveness of examinations. Natural hair state is preferable.
- Abstain From Sexual Activity: Refrain from sexual intercourse for 48 hours before the exam to ensure accurate results.
- Avoid Vaginal Douching: Douching can affect the exam’s accuracy and disrupt natural vaginal bacteria.
- Avoid Using Tampons and/or Vaginal Suppositories: These can interfere with the accuracy of the exam.
Cervical Cancer Screening | Price | Item | Result |
---|---|---|---|
[G112] Conventional Pap Smear | 2,000THB | Cervical specimen | 3-5 days |
[GH245] ThinPrep Pap Test + HPV DNA Test | 3,400THB | Cervical specimen | 7 days |
The price includes both the consultation and test fees. Results will be delivered via email within 7 days.
This service is available only at our Soi 24 branch.
Cervical Cancer Screening Availability at Phrom Phong Branch
Please note that cervical cancer screening services are available only at our Phrom Phong branch. A female doctor is available on Thursdays and Fridays for this service. However, doctor shifts may change, so if you have a preferred doctor, please inquire about their availability when booking your appointment.