Written by Dr. Avani Reddy, MBBS, MS OBG
Updated 2025-07-01
Why Cervical Cancer Screening Matters in India
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Indian women. India accounts for approximately 25% of the world's cervical cancer burden - largely because screening rates remain low. Yet cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. The precancerous stage (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or CIN) can be detected years before invasive cancer develops, and can be treated effectively to prevent progression. Dr. Avani Reddy offers accessible cervical cancer screening - Pap smear and HPV testing - at Kokapet and Gachibowli, Hyderabad, for all women of eligible age.
Who Should Have Cervical Screening and How Often?
Cervical screening is recommended for all women who have ever been sexually active, from age 21 (or 3 years after first sexual activity) until age 65. Screening recommendations in India, aligned with WHO guidelines, are as follows:
- Ages 21–29: Pap smear alone every 3 years
- Ages 30–65: Co-testing (Pap smear + HPV test) every 5 years; or Pap smear alone every 3 years; or HPV test alone every 5 years
- After hysterectomy: Screening may be discontinued if the cervix was removed and there is no history of high-grade CIN or cervical cancer
- Women with HIV or immunocompromise: More frequent screening is recommended - discuss with your gynaecologist
- Women with previous abnormal smears: Screening frequency is determined by the previous result and follow-up protocol
What Is a Pap Smear (Pap Test)?
A Pap smear (Papanicolaou test) is a simple procedure performed in the clinic by Dr. Avani Reddy at Kokapet or Gachibowli. A small brush is used to collect cells from the surface of the cervix. These cells are examined under a microscope to detect abnormal changes. The procedure takes less than 5 minutes. Mild discomfort or spotting may occur. A Pap smear does not require anaesthesia. Results are typically available within 5–7 working days.
HPV Testing and the Link to Cervical Cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the cause of virtually all cervical cancers. Most HPV infections clear on their own within 1–2 years without causing disease. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types (particularly HPV 16 and 18) can cause cervical cell changes that, if left untreated, may progress to cancer over 10–15 years. HPV testing detects the virus's DNA in cervical cells. It is more sensitive than the Pap smear alone for detecting cervical abnormalities and is now recommended as part of co-testing or primary screening.
Abnormal Pap Smear - What Happens Next?
An abnormal Pap smear result does not mean cancer - it means abnormal cells were detected that need further evaluation. Most abnormal results represent low-grade changes (ASCUS or LSIL) that the immune system often clears naturally. High-grade changes (HSIL, ASC-H) require more urgent assessment. The next step after an abnormal Pap smear is usually colposcopy.
- Colposcopy - examination of the cervix under magnification with a colposcope; allows direct visualisation of abnormal areas; targeted biopsies taken from suspicious areas
- Cervical biopsy - tissue removed from the abnormal area for histological assessment to determine the grade of abnormality (CIN 1, CIN 2, CIN 3)
- LLETZ/LEEP - loop electrosurgical excision procedure; removes a cone of cervical tissue containing the abnormal cells; used for CIN 2 and CIN 3; done under local anaesthesia in the clinic or under general anaesthesia in theatre
- Cone biopsy - a larger excision for high-grade abnormalities extending into the cervical canal
- Follow-up - regular repeat smears and/or HPV testing after treatment to confirm clearance
HPV Vaccine and Cervical Cancer Prevention in Hyderabad
HPV vaccination protects against the high-risk HPV types most commonly associated with cervical cancer (HPV 16 and 18) and the types causing genital warts (HPV 6 and 11). Vaccination is most effective when given before the first sexual exposure. In India, the vaccine is recommended for girls aged 9–14 years (2-dose schedule) and for women aged 15–26 years (3-dose schedule). Some benefit also exists for vaccination up to age 45. Vaccination does not replace cervical screening - vaccinated women still need regular Pap smears, as the vaccine does not protect against all HPV types.
Why choose Dr. Avani Reddy in Hyderabad?
- Obstetrician, gynecologist & fertility doctor with 10+ years of experience
- Accessible, private cervical screening - no long waiting times
- Co-testing (Pap smear + HPV) available - the most sensitive screening combination
- Colposcopy and LEEP for abnormal results managed in-house
- HPV vaccination counselling and referral
- Kokapet and Gachibowli locations - serving women from across Hyderabad
- Non-judgemental, supportive consultations for sensitive women's health topics
Frequently asked questions
How often should I have a Pap smear in Hyderabad?+
Women aged 21–29 should have a Pap smear every 3 years. Women aged 30–65 should have co-testing (Pap smear + HPV test) every 5 years, or a Pap smear every 3 years, or an HPV test every 5 years. Women with previous abnormal results or higher-risk factors may need more frequent testing.
Is a Pap smear painful?+
Most women describe a Pap smear as mildly uncomfortable - a brief pressure or cramping sensation when the speculum is inserted and when the cervical brush is rotated. The procedure takes less than 5 minutes. Mild spotting may occur on the day of the test. No anaesthesia is required.
What does an abnormal Pap smear mean?+
An abnormal Pap smear means that cervical cells with unusual characteristics were detected. It does not mean cervical cancer. Most abnormal results represent low-grade changes that often resolve without treatment. High-grade changes require further investigation with colposcopy and possibly treatment. Dr. Avani Reddy explains all Pap smear results clearly and recommends the appropriate next step.
Where can I get a Pap smear done in Kokapet or Gachibowli?+
Pap smears and cervical cancer screening are available at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli. No referral is needed. Results are available within 5–7 working days. Book at 83095 78197.
What is colposcopy and is it painful?+
Colposcopy is a detailed examination of the cervix using a magnifying instrument (colposcope) with a bright light. Acetic acid (vinegar solution) and/or Lugol's iodine is applied to the cervix to highlight abnormal areas. A small biopsy may be taken from abnormal areas for histological analysis. Most women experience brief cramping during biopsy. The procedure takes 10–15 minutes.
Is HPV infection serious?+
Most HPV infections clear on their own within 1–2 years without causing any symptoms or disease. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types can cause cervical cell changes that may progress to cervical cancer over many years. Regular cervical screening detects these changes early, when treatment is straightforward and effective.
Can I have a Pap smear during pregnancy?+
Yes. A Pap smear can be performed safely during the first or early second trimester if it is due or if there is a clinical indication. It is not routinely performed in the third trimester. Pregnancy does not cause cervical abnormalities but may affect how the smear is interpreted. Colposcopy can also be performed during pregnancy if needed.
Should my daughter have the HPV vaccine in Hyderabad?+
Yes. HPV vaccination is recommended for girls aged 9–14 years (2-dose schedule) before potential HPV exposure. It protects against HPV types 16 and 18 (responsible for 70% of cervical cancers) and, in the 9-valent vaccine, seven additional HPV types. Vaccination is available at government health centres and private clinics in Hyderabad. Consult Dr. Avani Reddy for guidance.
Do I need cervical screening if I have been vaccinated against HPV?+
Yes. HPV vaccination protects against the most common high-risk HPV types but not all of them. Regular cervical screening is still necessary for vaccinated women as it detects abnormalities caused by the remaining HPV types and provides an additional safety net.
What is LEEP/LLETZ and why is it done?+
LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) or LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) is a procedure that removes a small cone-shaped piece of the cervix containing the abnormal cells (CIN 2 or CIN 3). It uses a thin wire loop heated by an electric current. Under local anaesthesia, the procedure takes 10–15 minutes in the clinic. The removed tissue is sent for histological analysis. Most women return to normal activities within a few days.
Where can I get cervical cancer screening in Hyderabad?+
Dr. Avani Reddy is an obstetrician, gynecologist, and fertility doctor with 10+ years of experience (MBBS · MS OBG · Fellowship Reproductive Medicine · Diploma in ART), practising at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli. Book at 83095 78197 or online via TDAppointments.
Is cervical cancer screening available near Kokapet and Gachibowli?+
Yes. Consultations are available at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli, with patients travelling from Financial District, Kondapur, Hitech City, Narsingi, Manikonda, and across Hyderabad.
Who is a good obstetrician gynecologist for cervical cancer screening in Hyderabad?+
Dr. Avani Reddy is an obstetrician, gynecologist, and fertility doctor with 10+ years of experience (MBBS · MS OBG · Fellowship Reproductive Medicine · Diploma in ART), practising at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli. She focuses on cervical cancer screening with personalised plans and transparent next steps.
Related treatments
Serving all of Hyderabad
Dr. Avani Reddy provides cervical cancer screening in hyderabad for patients across Hyderabad - including Kokapet, Gachibowli, Financial District, Narsingi, Manikonda, Gandipet, Nanakramguda, Puppalaguda, Khajaguda, HiTech City, Kondapur, Madhapur, Banjara Hills, Jubilee Hills, Miyapur, Hitech City. Locations at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli.
Last updated: July 2025. Written by Dr. Avani Reddy, MBBS, MS OBG - obstetrician, gynecologist and fertility doctor with 10+ years experience.