Mascot Healthcare · Akoka, Lagos

Pap Smear
& VIA Cervical
Cancer Screening

Cervical Cancer Prevention · Abnormal Cell Detection · HPV Screening · Annual Women's Health

Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable — yet kills thousands of Nigerian women every year because most never get screened. The Pap smear and VIA detect precancerous changes years before cancer develops: treated at that stage, the cure rate approaches 100%.

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VIA

Same-day
Results

3–5 day

Pap Smear
Results

Private

Female-Friendly
Environment

Pap Smear Result

Cervical Cytology

NILM

Negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy

Normal ✓

Repeat in 3 years (age 21–65, average risk)

VIA

Visual Negative

About the Screening

Two Methods. One Goal.

Cervical cancer begins as abnormal cell changes (dysplasia) at the transformation zone of the cervix — an area easily sampled in a 5-minute procedure. Both Pap smear and VIA detect these changes. The method your clinician recommends depends on your history, age, and what level of investigation is appropriate.

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Pap Smear (Cervical Cytology)

A small brush collects cells from the cervix; the sample is sent to a laboratory where a cytologist examines cell morphology under a microscope. Results are reported using the Bethesda system: NILM (normal), ASC-US, LSIL, HSIL, or malignant. Takes 3–5 days. Recommended every 3 years from age 21.

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VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid)

Dilute acetic acid (vinegar) is applied to the cervix. Abnormal cells turn white (acetowhite) — visible immediately to the clinician. Results available the same day with no lab delay. Particularly useful for "see-and-treat" settings and for women who need rapid answers. Near-equivalent sensitivity to Pap smear in high-risk populations.

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Bethesda Reporting System

Pap smear results use standardised Bethesda terminology. NILM = normal, no follow-up needed. ASC-US = atypical cells, low concern. LSIL = low-grade changes, usually HPV-related. HSIL = high-grade precancer, requires colposcopy. Malignant = immediate urgent referral. We explain every result in plain language.

When to Screen

Five Reasons to Get Cervical Screening

All Women Aged 21–65 — Routine 3-Year Screening

Cervical cancer screening is recommended for all sexually active women from age 21. Every 3 years if Pap is normal. Annually if high-risk (HIV-positive, immunocompromised, prior abnormal results). Do not wait for symptoms — early dysplasia causes none.

HIV-Positive Women — Annual Screening

HIV dramatically accelerates HPV progression to cervical cancer. HIV-positive women have 6× the cervical cancer risk and should be screened annually — not every 3 years. Early detection in this group is especially critical given the accelerated disease trajectory.

Post-Abnormal Pap — Follow-Up Confirmation

An abnormal Pap (ASC-US, LSIL) typically resolves without treatment but requires repeat Pap in 12 months to confirm resolution. An HSIL result requires colposcopy. We flag what follow-up interval your result requires and guide you through the process.

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge

Postcoital bleeding (bleeding after intercourse), intermenstrual bleeding, or offensive vaginal discharge can be symptoms of cervical pathology — including early cervical cancer. Any woman with these symptoms should be screened promptly, not on a routine schedule.

Pre-Pregnancy or Pre-Marital Health Check

Cervical screening before or early in pregnancy provides a baseline and identifies any abnormal cells that should be monitored during and after pregnancy. It is also valuable as part of a comprehensive pre-marital health assessment for women over 21.

Cervical Screening Intervals

Average risk (21–65)

Every 3 years

HIV-positive women

Annually

Post-abnormal Pap

12-month repeat

HSIL result

→ Colposcopy

⚕️ A normal VIA or Pap smear does not test for HPV DNA. Women with known HPV exposure or multiple risk factors should discuss whether HPV co-testing (where available) is appropriate with their doctor.

Preparation

How to Prepare for Your Cervical Screening

Simple steps ensure the most accurate sample and the most comfortable experience.

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No Intercourse 48 Hours Before

Sexual intercourse, vaginal douching, and the use of vaginal creams, gels, or suppositories in the 48 hours before screening can introduce cells and discharge that obscure cervical cells, making interpretation difficult. Avoid all of these for accurate results.

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Schedule Away from Your Period

Heavy menstrual bleeding makes both Pap smear and VIA difficult to interpret. Schedule your screening mid-cycle — ideally days 10–20 of a 28-day cycle, when the cervix is most accessible and free of obscuring blood. Light spotting is usually acceptable.

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Tell Us Your History

Inform us of previous abnormal Pap results (and what they were), prior treatment for cervical lesions (LEEP, cryotherapy), pregnancy, HIV status, and any current symptoms. This history determines what we are looking for and what follow-up interval your result will require.

Why Choose Us

Trusted Cervical Screening in Akoka & Beyond

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Female-Friendly, Private Environment

Cervical screening is personal. We perform all pelvic examinations in private rooms with dignity. Female clinicians available on request. We take the time to explain the procedure before starting — no surprises.

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Same-Day VIA Results

VIA results are available immediately — before you leave the clinic. You do not wait days for a lab report. Ideal for women who cannot easily return for results or who prefer immediate answers.

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Clear Explanation of Every Result

Pap smear results use clinical terminology that can cause unnecessary anxiety without context. We explain exactly what NILM, ASC-US, LSIL, and HSIL mean, what action (if any) is needed, and when to return — so you leave informed.

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Complete Confidentiality

Cervical health is deeply personal — particularly given the HPV association. Your screening results are never disclosed to family members, employers, or partners without your explicit consent. Your visit and result are between you and our clinical team.

"I had never done a Pap smear — always avoided it because it felt awkward. The nurse at Mascot Healthcare was so calm and professional. She explained every step. Result was NILM — normal. I feel relieved and will come back every 3 years. Wish I had started sooner."

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M. Okafor

Patient, Akoka · 2025

1,500+

Pap & VIA Done

4.9★

Patient Rating

Same-day

VIA Results

Private

Female Rooms

Book Your Cervical Screening

Cervical Cancer Prevented. Every Time You Screen.

Walk in or book ahead. Located at 52 Sholanke Street, Off Chemist Junction, Akoka, Lagos.

Monday – Saturday · 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Closed Sundays & Public Holidays

08165866252 WhatsApp Us Book Online

No intercourse 48h before · Not during menstruation · Walk-ins welcome

Pap Smear& VIA CervicalCancer Screening