Pap Smear: Understanding This Essential Exam for Your Intimate Health

The cervical smear, or Pap test, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your intimate health.
In just a few minutes, it can detect early cell changes often linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV).

To accompany this article, you’ll find an illustrated diagram showing the anatomy (cervix, cervical canal, sampling zones) to help you clearly visualize what is being examined.

What Is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear involves gently collecting superficial cells from the cervix.
Its purpose: to ensure that the cells are healthy or to detect early changes that could be caused by HPV.

The process is simple:

1. The healthcare professional inserts a speculum to view the cervix.

2. Using a small brush or spatula, they collect a few cells.

3. The sample is then sent to a lab for cytological analysis and/or high-risk HPV testing (HPV-HR).

The procedure is quick, generally painless, and takes less than two minutes.

💡 Tip: You can ask to insert the speculum yourself if that makes you more comfortable — an increasingly common and entirely legitimate request.

You Don’t Have to Be Fully Undressed

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to remove all your clothes for a Pap test.
Only the lower part of your body is involved. You can keep:

• Your top or sweater

• Your socks

• A modesty drape if it helps you feel more at ease

A respectful and comfortable care setting is essential. Don’t hesitate to express your needs.

Consent Comes First

Your consent is mandatory.
If you don’t feel comfortable — or if the test is suggested before age 25 without explanation — you have every right to postpone it or discuss whether it’s necessary.
Your body, your choice.

Official HPV Screening Schedule (France)

Ages 25–29: Cytology (cell analysis)

• 1 Pap test per year for 2 years

• If normal → every 3 years

From age 30: High-Risk HPV test (HPV-HR)

• 1 test every 5 years if normal

• If positive → additional testing (colposcopy or repeat smear)

Why switch to HPV testing after 30?
Because transient HPV infections are common before 30, while persistent infections become more relevant later. HPV testing detects these earlier.

Why the HPV Test Matters

The HPV-HR test detects high-risk strains of human papillomavirus — responsible for 99% of cervical cancers.

A positive result simply means the virus was found — not that cancer is present.
In 90% of cases, your immune system naturally clears HPV within 1–2 years.

That’s why, at House of Freïa, we focus on supporting this natural process through:

• Immune support: AHCC® & liposomal Vitamin C

• Vaginal microbiome balance

• Cellular regeneration

• Healthy lifestyle: nutrition, sleep, movement, stress reduction

Possible Results (Based on French Health Authority Guidelines)

1️⃣ Normal result (HPV negative or normal cytology)
→ Next screening: every 3 years (< 30 yo) / every 5 years (≥ 30 yo)

2️⃣ HPV-HR positive, normal cells
→ Most common scenario.
→ Follow-up test after 12 months
→ If still positive → colposcopy to examine the cervix more closely

3️⃣ Abnormal cells (ASC-US, LSIL, HSIL, etc.)
→ Closer monitoring (6–12 months), colposcopy, or biopsy if needed

4️⃣ After cervical treatment (laser, conization, etc.)
→ Follow-up for 20 years, including a control HPV-HR test after 6 months

Self-Sampling: A Step Toward Autonomy

Since 2019, self-collected vaginal sampling has been a major advance for women’s health.
It allows women to collect their own sample for HPV-HR testing — safely and simply.

Benefits:

• Greater autonomy

• Reduced anxiety

• Accessibility in underserved areas

• Increased screening participation

Already widely used in the Netherlands, it is now expanding in France.

How to Prepare for Your Pap Smear

✔️ Avoid testing during menstruation
✔️ Avoid sexual intercourse 24–48 hours before the test
✔️ Postpone the exam in case of local infection or vaginal treatment

These steps help ensure accurate results.

💛 Take a deep breath, ask your questions, and express your needs — care begins with communication.

In Summary

• The Pap smear is quick, effective, and protective.

• Full undressing is never required.

• You can insert the speculum yourself.

• HPV screening follows a clear schedule.

• A positive HPV test is not a diagnosis.

• Self-sampling is a modern, reliable alternative.

• Immunity and microbiome balance are key to viral clearance.

At House of Freïa, we empower women to become active participants in their intimate health — through science, education, and natural formulations dedicated to feminine well-being.