Cancer Screening Programs

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix, which can be detected early by having regular Papanicolaou (Pap) tests. Pap tests are completed by trained healthcare providers by inserting a swab into the internal genitalia, gently removing cells from the surface of the cervix. These cells are then analyzed for any changes or abnormalities that could indicate cervical pre-cancer, or cancer.  

Who should be screened for Cervical Cancer?

Individuals with a cervix should start cervical cancer screening with Pap tests at age 21, or 3 years after becoming sexually active; whichever comes first.  Once screening has started, individuals should be screened yearly until there has been three (3) normal Pap tests in a row, at which point the frequency can be changed to once every two years. Talk to your primary healthcare provider about your eligibility for cervical cancer screening and whether it’s appropriate for you. 

Signs or symptoms of cervical cancer include:

  • abnormal genital bleeding (after sexual intercourse, between monthly bleeding, or after menopause)
  • increased or abnormal genital discharge
  • foul-smelling genital discharge
  • unusually long or heavy monthly bleeding
  • pain during sexual intercourse
  • pelvic or lower back pain
  • difficulty peeing or pooping
  • unexplained weight loss

How can I get screened?

A Pap test can be done at any health centre or primary care clinic. Call to book an appointment with your primary healthcare provider to be screened.

Try to schedule your test for a time when you are not having your monthly bleeding. Somewhere right between this time each month is best.

 

What to bring to your appointment

Arrive 15-20 minutes early to check in for your appointment. To check in, you will be required to show your healthcare card.

Getting your results

About two weeks after your Pap test, a report will be sent to your primary healthcare provider with your results. You will only be contacted if you have abnormal results and need further testing. If you would like to know your results either way, you can always call the health centre or primary care clinic and ask. Follow up with your primary healthcare provider to find out when you are due for your next Pap test.

 

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