Cervical screening and colposcopy in Marrakech

Screening finds changes in the cervix before they become serious: at this stage they are easy to treat. It is a prevention test, not a test for disease.

The sample is taken at the consultation, quickly and generally well tolerated. The smear analyses cervical cells; the HPV test looks for the virus. The test offered depends on your age and history.

If screening is abnormal, colposcopy examines the cervix under magnification and may include a small sample (biopsy) to clarify the diagnosis.

In the vast majority of cases it is a mild change or an HPV infection, which is monitored or treated. Options are explained case by case.

It prevents a large share of the infections that cause cervical lesions. It does not replace screening. Its value in your situation is discussed at the consultation.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very widespread virus, passed on during sexual intercourse. Most people are infected at some point in their lives, often without knowing it, and the body clears it on its own in the great majority of cases.

Only certain virus types, when they persist for years, can cause changes to the cervix that may develop into cancer. Having HPV is therefore neither shameful nor a fault: it is a reason to be followed up.

Screening is for women who have been sexually active. Recommendations vary between countries; in practice it starts between 25 and 30 and continues until about 65, at an interval of a few years when results are normal.

The exact rhythm depends on your age, the test used (smear, HPV test), your previous results and your history. The doctor tells you when to return.

After an explanation and with your agreement, a speculum is placed to see the cervix, then cells are collected with a small brush. It lasts a few moments and may cause brief discomfort.

For best conditions: avoid scheduling the test during heavy periods, and avoid intercourse, vaginal pessaries and douching in the previous 24 to 48 hours. See the gynaecological examination charter.

A result can be normal, show cell changes graded by importance, or reveal a high-risk HPV. These words are frightening, but most abnormalities are mild and disappear on their own or are treated simply.

The doctor explains your result, what it means and what to do: a simple repeat later, a further test or colposcopy.

When a lesion needs treatment, it is most often a local procedure that removes the abnormal area of the cervix in a targeted way. It is followed by regular monitoring to make sure it has healed.

Depending on the technique, the effect on a future pregnancy is discussed with you. The aim is to treat in time to prevent progression to cancer, while protecting your health and fertility.

Three levers complement each other: HPV vaccination, preferably before sexual activity begins, regular screening, and stopping smoking, which increases the risk of persistent lesions. Condoms reduce transmission without removing it completely.

Women with a weakened immune system (certain conditions or treatments) benefit from closer follow-up, to be discussed with the doctor.

The frequency of check-ups is set with you according to your results, age and history.