about Pap Smear & HPV Test

female patient undergoing pap smear test.

A pregnancy test is used to confirm pregnancy, however it cannot determine the type of pregnancy.

A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a screening procedure used to detect precancerous or cancerous cells in the cervix. The test involves collecting a small sample of cells from the cervix, which is then examined under a microscope for abnormalities.

The HPV test, on the other hand, detects the presence of high-risk HPV strains that are most commonly linked to cervical cancer. It can be performed using the same sample collected during the Pap smear or as a standalone test.

Together, these tests form a powerful screening strategy, significantly reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer when conducted regularly.

How prevalent is cervical cancer in Singapore?

Cervical cancer remains one of the top 10 cancers affecting women in Singapore. According to the Singapore Cancer Registry, approximately 200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. While this number has declined due to better awareness, and screening, it remains a concern, especially among women who do not undergo regular check-ups.

Most cervical cancer cases are caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains, which can go undetected for years without symptoms. This highlights the importance of early screening through Pap smear, and HPV testing, particularly since cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with timely intervention.

How prevalent is cervical cancer in Singapore?

Understanding how Pap smear, and HPV testing work can help ease any anxiety, and encourage regular screening. These tests are quick, straightforward, and typically performed during the same appointment. They involve collecting a sample of cells from your cervix to be examined for early signs of cervical abnormalities or the presence of high-risk HPV types that may lead to cervical cancer.

While both tests use a similar sample collection process, they serve different purposes:

The Pap smear looks for abnormal or precancerous cells on the cervix.
The HPV test detects the DNA of high-risk HPV strains that can cause these cell changes.

Generally, the procedure involves:

STEPS	DESCRIPTION
Preparation	You will be asked to lie on an examination table with your knees bent, and feet placed in footrests (also known as stirrups). A sheet or drape will be provided for privacy. It is best to relax your muscles to minimise discomfort.
Speculum Insertion	A small, lubricated device called a speculum is gently inserted into your vagina. This helps to open the vaginal walls, and provide a clear view of the cervix (the entrance to the womb).
Sample Collection	Using a soft brush, swab or spatula, the doctor will collect a sample of cells from the surface of your cervix. This process takes only a few seconds, and may feel like a brief scraping or pressure, but it should not be painful.
Laboratory Testing	The collected sample is placed in a special solution, and sent to a laboratory for detailed examination. In the lab, two separate analyses are conducted: Pap smear analysis – the cells are examined under a microscope for abnormalities, such as dysplasia (precancerous changes). HPV DNA testing – the same sample is tested using molecular methods to detect the presence of high-risk HPV types, including HPV 16 and 18, which are the strains most commonly linked to cervical cancer.

What are the benefits of Pap Smear and HPV Testing?

Some of the benefits include:

Early detection of pre-cancerous changes – pap smear can detect cervical cell abnormalities before they develop into cancer.
Identification of high-risk HPV strains – HPV testing helps identify women at higher risk, even before cellular changes occur.
Improved treatment outcomes – when abnormalities are detected early, treatment is more effective, and less invasive.
Peace of mind – for most women, test results are normal, providing reassurance about their reproductive health.
Reduced cervical cancer mortality – regular screening significantly lowers the risk of developing or dying from cervical cancer.

A pap smear is a quick, and straightforward procedure that allows women to have a better idea of their cervical health.

Who should consider getting a Pap Smear and HPV Test?

Cervical screening is advised for most women between the ages of 25 and 69, especially if you have ever been sexually active. This includes women who may no longer be sexually active but have had intercourse in the past.

You should consider getting tested if any of the following apply:

You are 25 years or older and have ever had sexual intercourse – sexual activity increases the risk of exposure to HPV, the virus responsible for most cervical cancers.
You have never had a Pap smear or you are overdue for one – if you have missed your scheduled screening or have never been tested, it is important to book an appointment, even if you feel perfectly healthy.
You or your partner have had multiple sexual partners – this raises the risk of HPV infection, even in monogamous relationships.
You have a weakened immune system – conditions such as HIV or the use of immunosuppressive medications can make it harder for your body to clear HPV infections, increasing your cancer risk.
You have a history of abnormal Pap smear results or HPV infections – previous abnormalities warrant closer monitoring through regular screening.
You are between 30 and 69 years of age – for women in this age group, a co-test, which combines both the Pap smear and HPV test, is preferred. This dual approach increases the accuracy of detecting cervical abnormalities, and determining risk.
You have received the HPV vaccine – even if you have been vaccinated, regular screening is still essential, as the vaccine does not protect against all high-risk HPV strains.

No Symptoms? Screening Still Matters

One of the challenges with cervical cancer is that it often develops without symptoms in its early stages. You may feel completely well, which makes regular testing all the more important. Do keep in mind that early detection allows for timely treatment, and can prevent the development of invasive cancer.

By staying up to date with your Pap smear, and HPV testing schedule, you take a proactive step in safeguarding your reproductive health.

Understanding your Pap Smear and HPV Test results

After your Pap smear, and HPV test, it typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for the results to be processed, and reviewed. These tests are designed to detect early changes in cervical cells, and identify any high-risk HPV infections, both of which can increase the risk of cervical cancer if left untreated.

Understanding your results can feel overwhelming, but rest assured that our gynaecologist will guide you through what they mean, and what steps to take next, if necessary.

Here is a simplified breakdown of possible outcomes:

TEST TYPE	RESULT	WHAT IT MEANS	NEXT STEPS
Pap Smear	Normal	No abnormal cells found.	Continue routine screening as recommended.
	ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance)	Mild cell changes, often linked to HPV or inflammation.	May require HPV testing or follow-up Pap smear in 6 to 12 months.
	LSIL (Low-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion)	Mild pre-cancerous changes likely due to HPV.	Monitoring or further evaluation (colposcopy) may be advised.
	HSIL (High-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion)	More significant pre-cancerous changes.	Further testing, and possibly treatment to remove abnormal cells.
	Cancerous Cells	Rare, but may indicate the presence of cervical cancer.	Urgent referral to a specialist for diagnosis, and treatment.
HPV Test	Negative	No high-risk HPV strains detected.	Low risk, as such continue routine screening.
HPV Test	Positive	One or more high-risk HPV strains detected.	Does not mean you have cancer, but further tests such as colposcopy or repeat screening may be needed.

  
      TEST TYPE
      RESULT
      WHAT IT MEANS
      NEXT STEPS
    

  
      Pap Smear
      Normal
      No abnormal cells found.
      Continue routine screening as recommended.
    

      Pap Smear
      ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance)
      Mild cell changes, often linked to HPV or inflammation.
      May require HPV testing or follow-up Pap smear in 6 to 12 months.
    

      Pap Smear
      LSIL (Low-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion)
      Mild pre-cancerous changes likely due to HPV.
      Monitoring or further evaluation (colposcopy) may be advised.
    

      Pap Smear
      HSIL (High-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion)
      More significant pre-cancerous changes.
      Further testing, and possibly treatment to remove abnormal cells.
    

      Pap Smear
      Cancerous Cells
      Rare, but may indicate the presence of cervical cancer.
      Urgent referral to a specialist for diagnosis, and treatment.
    

      HPV Test
      Negative
      No high-risk HPV strains detected.
      Low risk, as such continue routine screening.
    

      HPV Test
      Positive
      One or more high-risk HPV strains detected.
      Does not mean you have cancer, but further tests such as colposcopy or repeat screening may be needed.
    

TEST TYPE	RESULT	WHAT IT MEANS	NEXT STEPS
Pap Smear	Normal	No abnormal cells found.	Continue routine screening as recommended.
Pap Smear	ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance)	Mild cell changes, often linked to HPV or inflammation.	May require HPV testing or follow-up Pap smear in 6 to 12 months.
Pap Smear	LSIL (Low-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion)	Mild pre-cancerous changes likely due to HPV.	Monitoring or further evaluation (colposcopy) may be advised.
Pap Smear	HSIL (High-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion)	More significant pre-cancerous changes.	Further testing, and possibly treatment to remove abnormal cells.
Pap Smear	Cancerous Cells	Rare, but may indicate the presence of cervical cancer.	Urgent referral to a specialist for diagnosis, and treatment.
HPV Test	Negative	No high-risk HPV strains detected.	Low risk, as such continue routine screening.
HPV Test	Positive	One or more high-risk HPV strains detected.	Does not mean you have cancer, but further tests such as colposcopy or repeat screening may be needed.

How often should I undergo a Pap Smear and HPV Test?

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, but only if detected early. Routine cervical screening plays a crucial role in identifying abnormal cell changes or high-risk HPV infections before they progress to cancer. As such, the Health Promotion Board (HPB), and Singapore Cancer Society recommend the following guidelines for cervical screening:cancerous lesions.

AGE GROUP	RECOMMENDED TEST	SCREENING FREQUENCY	ELIGIBILITY
25 to 29 years	Pap smear only.	Every 3 years.	Women who have ever had sexual intercourse.
30 to 69 years	HPV test (with or without Pap smear).	Every 5 years.	Provided previous test results were normal.

  
      AGE GROUP
      RECOMMENDED TEST
      SCREENING FREQUENCY
      ELIGIBILITY
    

  
      25 to 29 years
      Pap smear only.
      Every 3 years.
      Women who have ever had sexual intercourse.
    

      30 to 69 years
      HPV test (with or without Pap smear).
      Every 5 years.
      Provided previous test results were normal.
    

AGE GROUP	RECOMMENDED TEST	SCREENING FREQUENCY	ELIGIBILITY
25 to 29 years	Pap smear only.	Every 3 years.	Women who have ever had sexual intercourse.
30 to 69 years	HPV test (with or without Pap smear).	Every 5 years.	Provided previous test results were normal.

However, our gynaecologist may recommend earlier or more frequent screening in the following situations, even if you have been vaccinated against HPV earlier:

You have had abnormal Pap smear or HPV test results in the past.
Your immune system is weakened, such as due to HIV infection or long-term immunosuppressive therapy.
You or your partner have had multiple sexual partners, increasing your exposure risk to HPV.
You were previously diagnosed with cervical abnormalities or precancerous lesions.

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Cervical cancer is highly preventable, especially when it is detected early.

Many women with early cervical cell changes feel completely healthy as cervical cancer often develops silently. That is why regular Pap smears, and HPV tests are not just recommended — they are essential. These simple, quick screenings can make all the difference in detecting problems early, when they are most treatable.

At Dr Ma Li Clinic, we understand that taking the first step towards screening, can feel intimidating. But you are not alone, and you deserve care that empowers you. Screening is more than a test as it is an act of self-care, a way to protect your future, and a powerful step toward regaining control of your cervical health.

Whether it is your first time, or you are due for a follow-up, we are here to support you every step of the way. Call us today to schedule an appointment, and regain autonomy over your cervical health.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Is the Pap smear painful?

The procedure is usually not painful, though some women may feel mild discomfort or pressure. It is brief and well tolerated.

What’s the difference between a Pap smear, and an HPV test?

A Pap smear checks for abnormal cervical cells, while the HPV test detects high-risk HPV strains that can cause these abnormalities. Both are essential for comprehensive screening.

Can I get tested during my period?

It is best to avoid screening during menstruation, as blood can interfere with test results. As such, it is best to aim to schedule your test at least 5 days after your period ends.

Do I still need testing if I have had the HPV vaccine?

Yes. The HPV vaccine protects against several high-risk strains but not all. In fact, regular screening is still necessary for complete protection.

What if I get an abnormal result?

Do not panic. Abnormal results do not mean you have cancer. If your results are abnormal, then further evaluation, such as a repeat test, colposcopy or biopsy, may be required.

Can I do the test if I am pregnant?

Yes, Pap smears are safe during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. Our gynaecologist will advise if screening is necessary during this time.

How should I prepare for the test?

Avoid sexual intercourse, vaginal medications or douching for at least 48 hours before the test. This is because these can affect the accuracy of the results.

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Pap Smear & HPV Test

How prevalent is cervical cancer in Singapore?

How prevalent is cervical cancer in Singapore?

What are the benefits of Pap Smear and HPV Testing?

Who should consider getting a Pap Smear and HPV Test?

No Symptoms? Screening Still Matters

Understanding your Pap Smear and HPV Test results

How often should I undergo a Pap Smear and HPV Test?

Book An Appointment

Frequently asked questions

Speak to Dr Ma Li today