Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers in women, yet it still affects many in Malaysia. The best way to protect yourself is through regular screening. Two important tests are the Pap smear and the HPV DNA test.
If you want to know about Pap smear or HPV tests, this article explains what they are, why they matter, and how often you should do them.

Cervical Cancer in Malaysia

Cervical cancer ranks among the top cancers in Malaysian women. Doctors link most cases to persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.
For many women, the immune system clears the virus naturally. But in some, the infection stays for years and slowly causes changes in the cervix. If doctors do not detect these changes, they can eventually turn into cancer. The process is slow, which is why screening saves lives — it gives doctors a chance to find problems early, long before cancer develops.

What is a Pap Smear?
A Pap smear is a simple test that checks the cells of the cervix for early warning signs of change. During the test, your doctor gently collects a sample of cells and sends it to the lab for review.

Types of Pap Smear
1.    Conventional Pap smear – In a conventional Pap smear, the doctor places the collected cells directly onto a glass slide for examination.
2.    Liquid-based Pap smear – In a liquid-based Pap smear, the doctor places the collected cells into a liquid container. This method gives clearer results, reduces errors, and lets doctors use the same sample for HPV testing.
Many clinics in Malaysia now use liquid-based Pap smear because it improves accuracy.

What is an HPV DNA Test?
The HPV DNA test looks for the genetic material of high-risk HPV strains. Types 16 and 18 cause the majority of cervical cancers.

The test works differently from the Pap smear. The Pap smear shows if cervical cells have changed, while the HPV DNA test finds the virus before changes start. This means doctors can detect risk earlier and act before any damage appears.

Advantages of HPV DNA Testing
•    Detects infection earlier than a Pap smear alone
•    Provides stronger reassurance when results are negative
•    Extends the screening interval to 5 years when combined with Pap smear

Pap Smear vs HPV Test
•    Pap smear → Identifies cervical cells that have already changed.
•    HPV DNA test → Identifies the virus that causes those changes.

Why Do Both?
Together, Pap smear and HPV DNA test provide the clearest picture of cervical health:
•    If both are normal, your risk is very low, and you can wait up to 5 years for your next test.
•    If the HPV test is positive but Pap smear is normal, your doctor may suggest closer follow-up.
•    If both tests show changes, doctors may recommend further checks such as colposcopy or biopsy.

How Often Should You Screen?
In Malaysia, doctors recommend:
•    Women 21–29: Pap smear every 3 years.
•    Women 30–65: Pap smear plus HPV DNA test every 5 years, or Pap smear alone every 3 years.
•    Women above 65: You may stop screening if you have had normal results for many years.
Even if you received the HPV vaccine, you still need regular screening. The vaccine does not protect against all cancer-causing HPV types.

HPV Test for Women in Malaysia
The HPV DNA test in Malaysia is available in most clinics and hospitals. Doctors often recommend it for:
•    Women over 30 years old
•    Women who have had Pap smear changes in the past
•    Women with family history of cervical cancer
•    Women who want more accurate reassurance about their health

Common Questions

Does the test hurt?
The test may feel slightly uncomfortable but it is usually painless and quick.

Can I test during my period?
It is better to schedule your test at least 5 days after your period ends.

How do I prepare?
Do not use vaginal creams, douche, or have sex for 24–48 hours before the test to ensure accurate results.

What if my results show changes?
This does not always mean cancer. Your doctor may recommend repeating the test, monitoring more closely, or doing further checks like colposcopy.

Beyond Screening: Prevention
Screening is the most important step, but prevention lowers risk even more:
•    HPV vaccination is recommended for girls and women before sexual activity. Women who are already sexually active can still benefit from the vaccine.
•    Healthy lifestyle habits such as eating well, exercising, and sleeping enough strengthen your immune system to fight infections.
•    Safe practices such as condom use reduce the chance of HPV transmission.

Cervical Cancer Screening in Johor
If you are looking for a Pap smear test near me or HPV DNA test Malaysia, Klinik Caring (Impian Emas, Johor) provides:
•    Liquid-based Pap smear
•    HPV DNA test
•    Combined Pap smear + HPV test packages
•    Consultation with a female doctor in a private, supportive environment
Our doctor explains your results clearly so you understand your risk and what to do next.

Key Takeaways
•    A Pap smear checks cervical cells for early changes.
•    An HPV DNA test finds the virus that may cause those changes.
•    Doing both tests together offers the best protection.
•    Regular cervical cancer screening in Malaysia prevents most cases.