Prevention is based on gynecological examination, colposcopy and cytology.
Cytology is a method that detects pathological conditions of the cervix. A cytological examination is performed by swabbing the outer and inner cervix with a tapping brush. The procedure takes only a few seconds and it is painless.
The removed sample is sent to a specialized laboratory for examination, and results are available within 14 days.
Before cytological examination (i.e. before each gynecological prevention) several principles must be observed:
- 5 days before test do not perform vaginal washing, and do not introduce suppositories.
- 48 hours before test do not have unprotected sexual intercourse.
- Test should be performed no less than 5 days after the menstrual period.
Failure to follow guidelines could produce unreliable results.
If results are normal, examinations are repeated yearly.
Classic cytological examinations are fully covered by health insurance.
If results show abnormalities, or if the presence of papillomavirus is confirmed, a further examination is recommended with 3 or 6 months. Further monitoring may be necessary at the Centre of Gynecological Oncological Prevention.
Patients with normal results may also request half yearly tests, but they are not covered by health insurance (please look at our price list). There is a choice of either conventional cytology test, or LBC (liquid based cytology). The LBC test detects pre-cancerous and cancerous cells of the cervix.
Detection rates exceed 90%. LBC samples are stored in our laboratory for 1 – 6 months where is possible to perform additional genetic and immunochemical examinations.
LBC method is not covered by health insurance.