Okay to get a dad smear is definitely not our definition of fun, but it is crucial that we do it. With up to 10,500-11 000 new cases of cervical cancer, which were recorded annually in South Africa, this is the most common cause of female cancer deaths in SA (by 2023 data). One of the disadvantages of screening? Have to book an appointment with the expensive gynecologist. But! Excellent news: You can make a dad smear at a family doctor!
What is a dad smear?
A dad smear includes collecting cells from its cervix – that is the lower end of the uterus. The doctor will carefully scrape off the cells so that they can be examined for abnormal cell growth. A PAP smear can be explained when detecting human papillomavirus with high risk (HPV) and cervical infections, the most common cause of cervical cancer in women, explains Dr. Ina de Beer, general practitioner at Intercare Woodhill.
If you carry out the recommended test, you will receive a greater probability that it will survive in cervical cancer because it will help with early detection and determine whether you will be risk of developing cervical cancer in the future.
Read more: What is the actual age for perimenopause – and what are the symptoms?
But do I really have to have a dad smear?
Yes. Women aged 21 and over should have the test at least every three years. Ultimately, the test can save your life – statistics show that cervical cancer is avoidable 95% of cases – so it is best not to avoid it. Cervical cancer affects disproportionately black women in South Africa who have a higher diagnosis and mortality rate. This inequality is reinforced by lower screening recording, which is due to factors such as inadequate access to healthcare, delayed treatment and the penetrating prevalence of HPV. Many women avoid being scrolled because they feel uncomfortable or unprepared. Here are some important things you need to know.
Read more: Everything you need to know about the “dreaded” Pap Brear
How it is done
Your doctor inserts a device called Speculum in your vagina. This keeps the vaginal walls open and enables access to the cervix. The doctor then scratches a small number of cells from the cervix. We won’t lie, that’s uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful. The cells are then sent to the laboratory for analysis. It is not unusual to experience some symptoms or slight bleeding after the test, but if it lasts longer than a day, you will definitely inform your doctor.
What to do in front of a dad smear
Make sure that your document is informed with a menstruation, as this can affect the accuracy of the test. Also try to avoid sex, spermicidal and Douching on the day before the test (never do it, it is not necessary), as this can also affect the results. All tests run better when they are relaxed. So try your best to stay calm and not to think too much about the test. It will be over before you know.
Read more: Is there something you can eat to smell your vagina well + sexual health questions answered
Where can you get a dad smear in South Africa
Pap -smear on a GP
PAP smears are usually carried out by the gynecologists, but more doctors also offer the PAP smear at the GP. If your family doctor does not yet offer it, you will find an Intercare GP that is closest to you. “Many women do not recognize that they do not have to make an appointment with a gynecologist to complete a Papring Pap smear,” said Dr. de Beer. “General practitioners in all Intercare medical centers are well trained to carry out daddling smears for the early detection of harmful cells.”
How much? For a dad smear in a household office, you pay the consulting fee plus the costs of the laboratory test. Pathological fees are calculated separately. In total, you can pay about R1 000. It is best to call in advance to know you safely.
With Clicks Clinics and Dis-Chem
Yes! Together with blood pressure tests and flu shots, you can deport your list in these pharmacies. And bonus: Some offer packages for the health care of women that contain a breast examination and/or an HPV rapid test. Sometimes you can do everything: a dad smear, a breast screening, an HPV fast test, blood pressure, a blood sugar, cholesterol and BMI.
How much? The prices can vary. So follow your socials for specials and advertising campaigns. In July, Dis-Chem headed a special for papal smear, breast examination and fast HPV test for R300. Book here at DIS-CHEM and clicks here.
Stand on Marie
Marie Stopes South Africa offers in her centers Pap smear tests. You can book online or call 0800 11 77 85 to find a center near you. Marie Stopes also offers several options that combine a PAP smear with other services. This can be cheaper if you need several tests.
How much? According to the website, a breast examination, PAP smears and contraceptive advice R840 costs.
In public clinics
In the public health sector, you are entitled to three free papal smears in your life, which are offered in 10 years of intervals for women aged 30 and over. Women who live with HIV are entitled to more frequent screenings. If the result is abnormal, the clinic will refer you to further care to a hospital at a higher level.
How much? Public health clinics offer services free of charge.