PAP Smear (Liquid Base Cytology - LBC) Test in Kathmandu

About this test

The PAP smear examines cells gently brushed from the cervix — the neck of the womb — to look for early changes long before they could ever become cancer. In the liquid-based method, the collected cells are rinsed into a preservative vial rather than smeared onto a glass slide; this produces a cleaner, evenly spread sample with far less mucus and blood obscuring the view, so fewer tests need to be repeated for being "unsatisfactory". Under the microscope our cytopathologist hunts for abnormal squamous or glandular cells, reporting them in the standard Bethesda categories such as ASC-US, LSIL, or HSIL, and can also flag signs of infection or inflammation. Almost all significant cervical changes are driven by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and the same liquid vial can be used for reflex HPV DNA testing without calling you back for a second visit. Cervical cancer remains one of the commonest cancers among women in Nepal, largely because screening uptake has historically been low — yet it is among the most preventable of all cancers when caught at this pre-invasive stage. Doctors recommend routine screening for women from around 21 to 65 years of age, repeated every three to five years depending on your HPV result and history. A smear may also be advised sooner if you have abnormal bleeding between periods or after intercourse, persistent unusual discharge, or a previous abnormal result. The result is best interpreted alongside your HPV status, age, and any prior smears, and an abnormal report usually means a simple follow-up colposcopy rather than anything to fear.

Sample type

Cervical cells (liquid-based collection vial)

Preparation

Schedule the test for when you are not menstruating — ideally 10 to 14 days after the first day of your period. For 48 hours beforehand, avoid intercourse, vaginal douching, and any vaginal creams, pessaries, or contraceptive gels, as these can obscure the cells. Empty your bladder before the examination. There is no need to fast.

Turnaround time

Reports for PAP Smear (Liquid Base Cytology - LBC) are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other pathology tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside PAP Smear (Liquid Base Cytology - LBC) or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.