Can Pap smear detect STDs? There are millions of women who want to know the answer to this question. If you are one among them, the first step in this direction will be to inform yourself on the basic facts pertaining to Pap smear test.
Pap smear test has been one of the most common methods of diagnosis for cervical cancer in women. It involves collection of the cervical cells and its subsequent testing to detect any conditions that may lead to cancer. It is recommended that women who are sexually active should undergo Pap smear test at least once in every 3 years. However, this doesn’t mean that all sexually transmitted diseases can be detected through a Pap smear test. This brings up another question to the fore.
What are the sexually transmitted diseases that can be diagnosed by Pap smear test?
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that affects about 4 million women annually. It can be considered similar to Gonorrhea considering the symptoms and nature of the bacterial multiplication. When left untreated, this can lead to contraction of infections like HPV and HIV. Although Pap smear tests cannot detect the presence of the bacteria, the changes occurring in the cervix due to Chlamydia can be determined. This is quite helpful, as in most cases, Chlamydia is asymptomatic.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is one of the most common yet curable sexually transmitted disease. Pap smear test is known to show about 60% accuracy in the diagnosis of this condition. When the cervical cells are tested by means of Pap smear test, a transparent corona, which surrounds the exterior cell nucleus, indicates Trichomoniasis. Inflammation and presence of red sores in the cervix are also considered signs of Trichomoniasis.
The complication of this condition involves increased susceptibility to herpes infection and HIV. Diseases related to pelvic inflammation, cervical neoplasia and tubal infertility are also linked to Trichomoniasis.
Herpes Infection:
In rare occasions, cells injured due to herpes infection are detected by a Pap smear test. During physical examination, evident sores due to herpes outbreak can be recognized easily.
If you want to know more about the symptoms of herpes, click here.
A Word of Caution
If you are still pondering over the question ‘Can Pap smear detect STDs?’, then the answer is a clear No. Pap smears cannot be considered a reliable method of detecting all sexually transmitted diseases. The fact that it indicates the presence of a few sexually transmitted infections does not make it a reliable option. It is always recommended that you consult a health care expert to know more about the appropriate methods of testing STDs.
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