Okay, so getting a Pap smear is definitely not our definition of fun, but it’s crucial that we get it done. With as many as 10 500-11 000 new cases of cervical cancer recorded annually in South Africa, it’s now the leading cause of female cancer-related deaths in SA (per 2023 data). One of the downsides of getting screened? Having to book an appointment with the expensive gynaecologist. But! Excellent news: you can get a Pap smear done at a GP!
What Is A Pap Smear?
A Pap smear involves collecting cells from your cervix – that’s the lower end of the uterus. The doctor will gently scrape away cells so that they may be examined for abnormal cell growth. A Pap smear can help with early detection of high-risk human Papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical infections, the leading cause of cervical cancer among women, explains Dr Ina de Beer, a general practitioner at Intercare Woodhill.
Going for the recommended test gives you a greater chance of surviving cervical cancer, because it helps with early detection and helps determine whether you are at risk of developing cervical cancer in the future.
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But Do I Really Need To Have A Pap Smear?
Yes. Women aged 21 and above should have the test at least once every three years. The test can ultimately save your life – statistics show cervical cancer is preventable 95% of the time – so it’s best not to avoid it. Cervical cancer disproportionately affects Black women in South Africa, who experience higher rates of diagnosis and mortality. This disparity is compounded by lower screening uptake, attributed to factors such as insufficient healthcare access, delayed treatment, and the pervasive prevalence of HPV. Many women avoid getting screened because they feel uncomfortable or unprepared. Here are some key things you need to know.
READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know About The “Dreaded” Pap Smear
How it’s done
Your doctor will insert a device called a speculum into your vagina. This keeps the vaginal walls open and allows for access to the cervix. The doctor then scrapes a small number of cells from the cervix. We won’t lie, this is uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. The cells are then sent to the lab for analysis. It’s not uncommon to experience some discomfort or light bleeding after the test, but if it persists for longer than a day, be sure to let your doctor know.
What To Do Before A Pap Smear
Be sure to let your doc know if you’re menstruating, as this may affect the accuracy of the test. Also, try to avoid sex, spermicide and douching (never douche, it’s not needed) the day before the test, as this may also interfere with results. All tests go better when you’re relaxed, so try your best to stay calm and not think too much about the test; it will be over before you know it.
READ MORE: Is There Anything You Can Eat To Make Your Vagina Smell Good + More Sexual Health Questions Answered
Where To Get A Pap Smear In South Africa
Pap Smear At A GP
Pap smears are usually done at the gynaecologist’s, but more doctors are offering the Pap smear at the GP, too. If your GP does not offer it just yet, you can find an Intercare GP nearest to you. “Many women don’t realise that they don’t need to make an appointment with a gynaecologist to have a screening Pap smear done,” said Dr. de Beer. “General practitioners at all the Intercare medical centres are well trained to perform Pap smears for early detection of harmful cells.”
How much? For a Pap smear at a GP’s office, you will pay for the consultation fee plus the cost of the laboratory test. Pathology fees are charged separately. All in, you could pay around R1 000. Best to call ahead to know for sure.
At Clicks Clinics and Dis-Chem
Yes! Along with blood pressure testing and flu shots, you can tick the Pap smear off your list at these pharmacies. And, bonus: some offer packages for women’s healthcare that include a breast exam and/or an HPV rapid test. Sometimes you can also do it all: a Pap smear, breast screening, HPV rapid test, blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, and BMI.
How much? Prices may vary, so follow their socials for specials and promotions. In July, Dis-Chem ran a special for Pap smear, breast exam and rapid HPV test, all for R300. Book at Dis-Chem here and at Clicks here.
At Marie Stopes
Marie Stopes South Africa offers Pap smear tests at their centres. You can book online or call 0800 11 77 85 to find a centre near you. Marie Stopes also offers several options that combine a Pap smear with other services, which can be more cost-effective if you need multiple tests.
How much? According to the website, a breast exam, Pap smear and contraceptive consultation costs R840.
At Public Clinics
In the public health sector, you are entitled to three free Pap smears in your lifetime, offered at 10-year intervals for women aged 30 and older. Women living with HIV are entitled to more frequent screenings. If the result is abnormal, the clinic will refer you to a higher-level hospital for further care.
How much? Public healthcare clinics offer services for free.
