Pap smear in Medellín, reliable and high-quality tests

Medellín, there are several options for having a cytology. You can go to public health centers, laboratories and private gynecological medical offices. At MedicosDoc.com you can find the best gynecologists in Medellín to review your medical check-up and Pap smear.

The cost of a cytology can vary depending on whether it is performed in a public or private health center. In public centers, Pap smears are usually offered free or at low cost. In private institutions, the price may be higher. If you have health insurance, it is advisable to check if cytology is covered and in what proportion. It costs approximately $40,000 COP for the conventional test and $60,000 COP for the liquid-based test.

The recommended frequency for Pap smears may vary according to medical guidelines. However, it is generally suggested that women begin Pap smears at age 21 and, if results are normal, repeat every three years. Women over the age of 30 may choose to combine cytology with the HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) test every five years, if the results of both tests are negative.

The main difference between conventional cytology and liquid-based cytology lies in the way the cervical cell sample is collected and processed for analysis. Both techniques aim to detect abnormal changes in cervical cells that could indicate the presence of precancerous lesions or cervical cancer. However, they differ in the sample collection and preparation process, as well as in the way the cells are examined.

Conventional cytology (Papanicolaou):

• Sampling: Samples of cells are obtained from the cervix using a device similar to a brush or spatula. These cells are transferred directly onto a glass slide or slide.
• Sample preparation: Once the sample is obtained, it is fixed and stained for subsequent analysis in the laboratory. The cells are examined under a microscope to detect any abnormalities.

Liquid-based cytology:

• Sampling: Cells are collected from the cervix, as in conventional cytology, but in this case, they are placed in a vial of special liquid to preserve the cells.
• Sample preparation: In the laboratory, the vial with the cells is shaken to disperse them in the liquid. A sample of that fluid is then taken and placed on a slide for analysis.
• Advantages: Liquid-based cytology has some potential advantages over conventional cytology, such as increased sensitivity in detecting precancerous lesions and a reduction in the number of unsatisfactory samples due to better dispersion of cells in the liquid.

Both techniques are effective in detecting abnormal changes in cervical cells and are essential in the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer. However, the choice between conventional and liquid-based cytology may depend on the availability of resources and the preferences of the physician or laboratory performing the analysis. In many countries, liquid-based cytology has become more common due to its potential advantages, but both techniques remain accepted and effective.

Before having a Pap smear, it is important to follow some recommendations. Avoid having sex, using vaginal douches, vaginal creams or suppositories, or inserting tampons for at least 48 hours before the test, as these can affect the results. Also, if you are menstruating at the time scheduled for the Pap smear, it is preferable to postpone it to another time of the menstrual cycle.

Pap smear itself should not cause significant pain. It may cause some mild discomfort or discomfort, but it shouldn't be painful. During the test, the health professional will insert a speculum into the vagina to obtain a sample of cells from the cervix. If you feel any unusual or severe pain during the Pap smear, be sure to tell your doctor or nurse so they can take appropriate action.