[The cervicovaginal smear: indications techniques and results]

Cervical/vaginal smears are taken to identify certain cervical and vaginal anomalies. The taking of such smears permits the early detection of dysplastic lesions within the vagina and cervix before they become cancerous monitoring and evaluation of women’s hormonal status and identification and examination of prevailing vaginal bacteria. The authors researched the indications best techniques and precautions to follow in order to ensure the highest quality taking of cervical/vaginal smears. Their findings are based upon literature review direct observation of smear procedures and interviews with attending medical and health personnel. The quality of cervical and vaginal smear-taking depends upon how the sample is taken fixed and colored as well as the level of experience of the responsible cytologist. Women should undergo cervical/vaginal smear every 1-2 years with positive smears confirmed by colposcopy and biopsy.