Preventive Gynaecology

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  Dr Latika Singh Sinsinwar focuses on the principle "prevention is better than cure". She believes that regular gynaecological follow ups as directed by international and national gynaecological societies should be undertaken by women of all ages. This prevents many deadly diseases from happening and also if unfortunately something is developing then we can detect them early and treat them successfully.

It includes – PAP smear testing and HPV Vaccination.
 

1. A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a screening test used to detect abnormal cells in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. The test involves collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope to look for any changes or abnormalities that may indicate the presence of cervical cancer or precancerous cells.
 

The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin getting Pap smears at age 21 and continue getting them every three years until age 29. From age 30 to 65, women should get a Pap smear and human papillomavirus (HPV) test every five years, or a Pap smear alone every three years. Women over age 65 who have had regular screenings with normal results may be able to stop getting Pap smears.
 

Pap smears are a relatively simple and quick procedure that can be done in a gynaecologist’s OPD. The gynaecologist will insert a speculum into the vagina to hold the walls apart and then use a small brush or spatula to collect cells from the cervix. Some women may experience mild discomfort or spotting after the test, but this usually goes away quickly.
 

Regular Pap smears are important because they can help detect cervical cancer early, when it is more treatable. It is important for women to follow their gynaecologist’s recommendations for screening and to report any unusual symptoms, such as abnormal bleeding or discharge, to her right away.
 

2. HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccinations are vaccines that help protect against certain strains of HPV that can cause cancers and other diseases, such as genital warts. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and most sexually active people will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives.
 

The HPV vaccine is typically recommended for both males and females between the ages of 9 and 45. The vaccine is most effective when given before a person becomes sexually active, as it helps protect against the most common strains of HPV that can cause cancer. The vaccine is usually given as a series of two or three shots over a period of several months.
 

The HPV vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects. The most common side effects include pain or redness at the injection site, mild fever, and headache. Serious allergic reactions are rare.