Dear PRAMITA friends, maintaining cervical health is one of the important steps that is often overlooked. In fact, cervical cancer is still one of the leading causes of death among women in Indonesia. The good news is, there is a simple way to detect it early: Pap Smear.

What is Pap Smear?
Pap Smear is a medical examination performed by taking cell samples from the cervix using a special tool. These samples are then examined in the laboratory to determine whether there are abnormal cells, precancerous cells, or even signs of cervical cancer. This test can also identify inflammation or infections of the cervix.

It is important to emphasize that Pap Smear is only performed on women who have been sexually active. This is because sexual activity is closely related to HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) infection, which is the main cause of cervical cancer.

Who Is Recommended for Pap Smear?
Pap Smear is recommended for:

1. Women aged 21 years and above who are sexually active.
2. Women aged 30–65 years, every 3 years, or every 5 years if combined with an HPV test.
3. Women at high risk, such as those with a family history of cervical cancer, smokers, weakened immune system, or multiple sexual partners.

For women over 65 years old with normal Pap Smear results in the last 10 years, this test can be stopped under doctor’s advice.

Preparation Before Pap Smear
To ensure accuracy:

1. Avoid sexual intercourse at least 2 days before the test.
2. Do not use tampons, vaginal creams, or douching.
3. Do not schedule Pap Smear during menstruation; the best time is 5 days after menstruation ends.
4. If recently gave birth, wait at least 12 weeks before the test.

Procedure
The Pap Smear procedure takes only 10–20 minutes. The doctor inserts a speculum to open the vaginal wall, then takes a cell sample with a soft brush. Results are analyzed in the lab and later discussed with the doctor.

By routinely doing Pap Smear at PRAMITA, friends are taking a significant step to protect themselves from cervical cancer and maintain a better quality of life.