Cervical cancer, when detected early, is highly treatable. Screening plays a critical role in women’s long-term reproductive health.
Regular PAP smear screening is one of the most effective tools for the early detection of cervical cancer. It may help identify:
Early detection allows for treatment before the condition progresses.
PAP smears can detect subtle signs of irritation or infection.
Certain pathogens may be identified during cervical cell analysis.
Assessment begins with a discussion of your medical history and screening needs.
Your doctor may recommend:
Start PAP smears if you’re 25 or older and have been sexually active.
If it’s been over 3 years since your last test, screening may be due.
Consider PAP with HPV co-testing if you’re 30 years old or above.
More frequent screening may be needed if you’ve had abnormal results or HPV.
Your doctor may recommend a PAP smear based on your screening schedule.
Your session begins with a private consultation with one of our female doctors. Your symptoms, history, and eligibility for PAP smear screening (with or without HPV testing) will be reviewed.
You will be guided to lie comfortably on the examination couch. No fasting or special preparation is required, though you may be advised to avoid sexual activity or vaginal products for 48 hours beforehand.
A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to visualise the cervix. A soft brush is used to collect cervical cells in a painless, quick motion. The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes.
You can resume all daily activities immediately. Results are usually available within a week, and your doctor will follow up with you.
If results are normal, your doctor will advise on the next screening interval. If abnormalities are found, further tests (such as HPV screening or colposcopy) may be recommended.
All PAP smear screenings within our medical group are performed by trained women’s health professionals in a confidential and supportive environment. Care is delivered in line with PHMC guidelines and MOH professional standards, and overseen by doctors registered with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC). Accredited under the SMC APOC framework, our group ensures ethical, safe, and evidence-based care — supporting women in preventive health with clarity, respect, and confidence.
Most women feel mild pressure but not pain. Discomfort can be minimised with relaxation and experienced handling.
The entire screening takes around 5 minutes.
It is recommended to schedule it at least 5 days after your period ends for more accurate results.
No fasting is required. You may eat and drink normally.
Avoid sexual intercourse, douching, or using vaginal products 48 hours before the test.
Results are usually ready within one week. Your doctor will follow up with you.
Your doctor may recommend further testing, such as an HPV test or a colposcopy.
Yes, it is safe and sometimes recommended during pregnancy.
While a normal result is reassuring, continued regular screening is still important.
Women aged 30 and above may benefit from HPV co-testing. This will be discussed during your consultation.
