Follow-up Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) Test – if certain types of high-risk HPV (human papillomavirus) are found in self-screening

What is a Follow-up Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test?

A Follow-up Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test may be recommended if certain types of high-risk HPV (human papillomavirus) are found in your cervical self-screening sample.

Please note: 

If you do not qualify for a Follow-up Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test and need more information on regular cervical screening, visit HPV Screening and Cervical Cancer Prevention. 

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A Follow-up Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test can be done by a doctor, nurse practitioner, registered nurse or midwife at their office or clinic. The test takes between 5 to 10 minutes.

Step One

For the test, you will need to undress from the waist down. You will be provided with a gown or a sheet to cover up. Then lie back on the medical table and put your feet up. 

Step Two

When you’re comfortable, the health care provider will gently insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina. The speculum holds the walls of the vagina open so that your cervix can be seen more clearly. 

You may feel some pressure from the speculum, but it’s usually not painful.

Step Three

The health care provider will use a small spatula or brush to collect some cells from your cervix. 

Remember, you’re in control – don’t hesitate to ask questions or request to stop the test at any time if you feel uncomfortable.

Step Four

The sample then goes to a lab to be examined for either signs of abnormal cells or HPV, or both. This will depend on factors like your age and health history. 

Your results will be shared with you and a health care provider. 

How to get a Follow-up Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test?

The Health PEI Cervical Cancer Screening Service provides appointments for Follow-up Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) tests at their Cervical Screening Clinics, following a cervical self-screening test that shows certain high-risk HPV types.

To get a Follow-up Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test call your health care provider or find a suitable clinic by calling the Provincial Cervical Screening Service at (902) 368-5901 or at 1-888-561-2233 or complete and submit an online Appointment Request Form.

What's the best way to prepare for a Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test?

Try to schedule your appointment for a day when you are not on your period.

Avoid sexual activity, tampons, creams, or medications inserted into the vagina for 48 hours before the test.

Your Results

The Health PEI Cervical Cancer Screening Service will mail the results to you.

What happens after the Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test?

Depending on your results, you may need to undergo repeat screening when invited or have a colposcopy, a procedure to examine the cervix more closely.

What does an abnormal Liquid-Based Cytology (Pap) test result mean?

An abnormal result indicates that some cells of the cervix appear different. This rarely signifies cervical cancer and can be due to various reasons.

Abnormalities can be classified as either low-grade or high-grade.

Low-Grade Abnormalities

These involve minor changes that usually resolve on their own. The body typically clears these changes naturally within one to two years.

If you have low-grade abnormalities, you will need a follow-up cervical screening test in 12 months. If that test is also abnormal, you will be referred for a colposcopy.

High-Grade Abnormalities

High-grade abnormalities reflect more severe changes to the cells of the cervix.

If you are found to have a high-grade abnormality, a colposcopy will be required. During this procedure, a small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken and sent to a laboratory for further testing. Based on the severity of the abnormality, your doctor will recommend the best course of treatment.

For more information, visit paptestinfo.ca.