Cervical cancer screening
Perform your HPV screening and PAP test regularly to prevent this cancer
Get an all-in-one service for your PAP and HPV tests
A proven, fast and simple screening protocol
No test requisition needed
Detects HPV types and PAP test on the same sample
Results within 72 hours
Lab test cost reimbursed by most private insurance companies
How does a cervical cancer screening work at Biron?
Biron offers an innovative screening protocol that starts with an HPV (human papillomavirus) test, followed by cytological triage (PAP test), performed from a single cervical smear.
Make an appointment
Sampling and HPV testing
Results and follow-up analysis
Support and care
Before scheduling an appointment, it is important to confirm that you are aged between 25 and 65, and that you do not have any symptoms or vaginal bleeding. Cervical cancer screening is not a diagnostic test for cancer and is generally recommended every 3 years.
Find a service center
Montréal
Quebec
Brossard
Laval
Ste Thérèse
Lachenaie
How much does a cervical screening test cost?
This screening protocol includes the medical prescription, HPV sampling and testing, as well as a follow-on PAP test on the same sample if required, and care in positive screening. The entire protocol offered by Biron will cost you $249.
If you already have a medical prescription, fees start at $119, depending on the tests prescribed.
Most private insurers reimburse all or most of these charges. We recommend that you check with your insurer before beginning the process.
Why cervical cancer screening is important?
Many women with cervical cancer have no symptoms at all. While some women may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, this can also be caused by other health problems. It is therefore essential to consult a doctor as soon as abnormal vaginal bleeding occurs.
The risk factors for cervical cancer :
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Co-infection with other STDs/STIs
- Multiple sexual partners
- Sexual partner with multiple sexual partners
- Sexual activity from a young age
- Tobacco consumption
- Multiple births
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives
Learn more : Cervical cancer: Symptoms and treatment
In Quebec, cervical cancer is the third most common cancer among women aged 25 to 44. This cancer can be prevented by regular screening.
Learn more about HPV test, the Pap test and cervical cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is one of the most contagious sexually-transmitted infections, affecting around 75% of sexually-active Canadian women and men in their lifetime.The HPV test detects the presence of the virus and the types most likely (16 et 18) to cause cancer, but does not detect the presence of abnormal cells. It is used for screening purposes, to detect more cases at risk.
PAP Test
The Papanicolaou, or Pap, test, also referred to as liquid-based cytology, analyses a sample under a microscope to detect any abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix. Since this test detects suspicious cells, it is a good complement to the HPV test.
Cervical cancer
Cancer of the cervix occurs in the narrow area connecting the uterus to the vagina. Cancer may be suspected when abnormal cells in the mucous membrane of the cervix grow uncontrollably and eventually form a lesion.
Do you have a test requisition?
If a healthcare professional has prescribed a cervical cancer screeing or HPV test, get an appointement and your results fast.
Frequently asked questions
Is cervical cancer screening painful?
The procedure takes only a few minutes and usually causes little to no pain. You may feel slight discomfort or pressure.
How often should I be screened for cervical cancer?
It is generally recommended to have an HPV test every five years or a Pap test every three years.
Can I have a screening cervical cancer test if I've had a hysterectomy?
This depends upon your situation, so we invite you to contact our nurse navigator at 1 (514) 866-5005, ext 1286 before scheduling a screening test at Biron. If you've had a partial hysterectomy - when the uterus is removed but the lower part of the uterus (the cervix) is retained - your doctor will probably recommend that you continue to undergo screening tests. If a complete hysterectomy occurred to address a non-cancerous (benign) or pre-cancerous condition, your doctor should recommend that you stop screening.
Can I be screened for cervical cancer if I’m under 25?
Yes you can, if you have a prescription from your doctor. The minimum age required to get a prescription from a Biron health care professional is 25.
What happens if I test positive for HPV?
Additional tests will be performed, and the person who issued your prescription will follow up with you. In some cases, a colposcopy will be prescribed. This is a visual examination of the vagina and cervix performed by a gynecologist.
Should I get tested even if I’ve been vaccinated?
Yes. Vaccination may not protect against all types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer. Therefore, vaccination status has no bearing on screening recommendations.
Get your screening test done now
Take charge of your health with regular cervical cancer screening