Pap Smear
What is it? A
Pap smear is a screening test used to detect potentially precancerous and cancerous processes in the cervix.
Why is it important? It helps in early detection of
cervical cancer, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.
How is it performed?
A healthcare provider collects cells from the cervix using a small brush and spatula, which are then analyzed in a lab.
Colposcopy
What is it? A
colposcopy is a procedure to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease.
When is it recommended?
It is often performed if a Pap smear result is abnormal.
What does it involve?
The gynecologist uses a special instrument called a colposcope to magnify the area and take biopsies if necessary.
Ultrasound
What is it? An
ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of the internal organs, including the reproductive organs.
Why is it done?
It helps in diagnosing conditions like ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and pregnancy-related issues.
Types of Ultrasound: There are two main types:
transabdominal, which involves scanning over the abdomen, and
transvaginal, which involves inserting a probe into the vagina for a closer view.
Hysteroscopy
What is it? A
hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to look inside the uterus to diagnose and treat causes of abnormal bleeding.
When is it used?
It is often used to investigate symptoms like abnormal uterine bleeding, and to diagnose conditions like polyps or fibroids.
Procedure details:
A thin, lighted tube (hysteroscope) is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus.
Endometrial Biopsy
What is it? An
endometrial biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample from the lining of the uterus for examination.
Purpose:
It is used to investigate abnormal uterine bleeding and to check for endometrial hyperplasia or cancer.
How is it done?
The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube through the cervix to collect the tissue sample.
Mammography
What is it? A
mammography is an X-ray imaging method used to examine the breast for the early detection of cancer.
Who should get it?
It is typically recommended for women aged 40 and above, or earlier for those with a family history of breast cancer.
Procedure:
The breast is compressed between two plates to obtain clear X-ray images.
HPV Testing
What is it? HPV testing is used to detect the presence of high-risk types of human papillomavirus that can lead to cervical cancer.
When is it done?
It is often done in conjunction with a Pap smear or if Pap smear results are abnormal.
How is it performed?
The test can be done using a sample of cells from the cervix collected during a Pap smear.
Laparoscopy
What is it? Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine the organs inside the abdomen.
Indications:
It helps diagnose conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and ectopic pregnancy.
Procedure:
A small incision is made near the navel, and a thin tube with a camera (laparoscope) is inserted to view the pelvic organs.
