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Medical information Clinical review pending

Cytogenetics

Cytology Pap Smear (Two Slides Only)

A vital screening test to detect early signs of cervical cancer by examining cells collected from the cervix. Essential for women's preventive health.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Cells collected from the cervix during a pelvic exam.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. Results are typically available within 2 days.
Preparation
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. Generally, avoid douching, using vaginal creams or sprays, and having sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours before the test. The test is best performed when not menstruating.
Test priceKSh 1,500

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Cytology Pap Smear (Two Slides Only) test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Routine cervical cancer screening for women aged 21 and older.
  • ✓Screening for sexually active women.
  • ✓Investigation of unusual vaginal bleeding.
  • ✓Evaluation of unexplained pelvic pain.
  • ✓Assessment of unusual vaginal discharge.
  • ✓Follow-up after previous abnormal Pap smear results.
  • ✓Screening for women with risk factors like HPV infection or family history of cervical cancer.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test is used for the early detection of cervical cancer and precancerous changes in the cervix, enabling timely intervention and improving treatment outcomes.
The Cytology Pap Smear (Two Slides Only) is a crucial diagnostic test designed to detect early signs of cervical cancer in women. This test involves collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope. It is an essential tool for preventive health care, allowing for early intervention and treatment if necessary.

What the Test Measures This test measures the presence of abnormal cells in the cervix, which may indicate precancerous conditions or cervical cancer. By analyzing the cellular structure, healthcare providers can identify any changes that may require further investigation or treatment.

Who Should Consider This Test Women who are sexually active or over the age of 21 should consider getting a Pap smear as part of their routine health check-ups. Symptoms that may warrant this test include: - Unusual vaginal bleeding - Unexplained pelvic pain - Unusual discharge Risk factors include a history of cervical cancer in the family, HPV infection, or previous abnormal Pap results.

Benefits of Taking the Test - Early detection of cervical cancer, significantly improving treatment outcomes. - Identification of precancerous changes, allowing for timely intervention. - Peace of mind for women regarding their reproductive health.

Understanding Your Results Results from the Cytology Pap Smear will typically be available within 2 days. A normal result means no abnormal cells were found, while an abnormal result will require further testing or monitoring. It’s essential to discuss your results with your healthcare provider for appropriate guidance and next steps.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationConfirm with the laboratory before booking. Generally, avoid douching, using vaginal creams or sprays, and having sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours before the test. The test is best performed when not menstruating.
SampleCells collected from the cervix during a pelvic exam.
MethodologyMicroscopic examination of cervical cells collected via a speculum exam.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test screens for abnormal cells but does not detect all types of cervical cancer or precancerous lesions. It may also yield false-negative or false-positive results. Further testing may be required based on the results.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Screening frequency depends on age and risk factors. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Most women experience mild discomfort, similar to a pelvic exam, but it is generally not painful.
An abnormal result does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Your doctor will discuss the findings and recommend further tests or follow-up as needed.
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. A prescription may be required.
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. Discuss with your doctor if the test is appropriate during pregnancy.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

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09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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