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Pap Smear in Singapore

Pap smear (Thin Prep) is the standard screening test for cervical cancer. Mediway Medical Centre offers pap smear at $60, or the more comprehensive Pap + HPV co-test at $220 (recommended for women aged 30+ per Singapore HPB guidelines). Takes 5 to 10 minutes. Same-day appointments usually available.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Qiao Yufei, MD · MBBS · Last reviewed 28 April 2026

Book Pap Smear WhatsApp 8779 9898
  • Pap smear$60Thin Prep test
  • Co-test (pap + HPV)$220Recommended for women 30+
  • Duration5–10 minQuick procedure
  • Results3–7 daysBy phone/WhatsApp
  • FrequencyEvery 3–5 yrsPer Singapore HPB
  • LocationThe RiverwalkClarke Quay MRT
Pap Smear ResultThin Prep
  • CytologyNILM · No abnormal cellsNormal
  • HPV co-testNegative · High-risk strainsClear
  • SpecimenAdequate for evaluationSatisfactory
  • Next screenPer Singapore HPB schedule5 years

Sample previewResults in 3 to 7 daysFrom $60

What is a pap smear?

A pap smear (or "Pap test") is a cervical cancer screening procedure. A small sample of cells is collected from the cervix using a soft brush, then sent to a laboratory to check for abnormal cellular changes, including pre-cancerous changes and early cancer.

Cervical cancer is almost always caused by persistent HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection. Pap smears catch cellular changes years before they become cancer, when they're easily treatable. Combined with HPV vaccination, regular pap screening has reduced cervical cancer rates by more than 70% globally since the 1970s.

Mediway uses the Thin Prep liquid-based cytology method, the current standard, which is more accurate than the older conventional pap smear technique.

For broader HPV context (strains, cancer links, vaccination), see our HPV guide.

Singapore cervical cancer screening guidelines

Singapore's Health Promotion Board (HPB) recommends the following screening schedule for women who have ever been sexually active.

Ages 25–29

Pap smear every 3 years

HPV DNA testing is not routine in this age group as transient HPV infections are very common and usually clear naturally. Pap alone is sufficient.

Ages 30–69

Pap + HPV co-test every 5 years

Combined testing catches both cellular changes AND high-risk HPV, the most sensitive approach. Pap + HPV co-test is the preferred option. Pap alone every 3 years is acceptable if co-test isn't available.

Ages 70+

Screening typically stops

If prior screening has been consistently negative and no ongoing risk factors exist, routine screening can stop. Discuss with your doctor.

Earlier or more frequent screening may be recommended if you have: previous abnormal results, immunosuppression (including HIV), DES exposure in-utero, prior cervical cancer/precancer treatment, or multiple sexual partners with inconsistent protection.

Pricing

Transparent pricing at Mediway. No additional consultation fee needed if you know you want the test.

  • Pap Smear (Thin Prep): cervical screening alone

    Price: $60

  • Pap Smear + HPV DNA co-test: recommended for 30+

    $220

  • Consultation (optional, if you want guidance)

    $38

All prices inclusive of GST. Co-test sample is collected in a single visit, with one swab processed for both pap and HPV DNA.

What to expect at your visit

  1. Check in

    Private reception at The Riverwalk basement. Bring photo ID.

  2. Brief pre-test

    Doctor asks about last period, pregnancy status, and any prior abnormal results. Takes 2-3 min.

  3. Sample collection

    Female doctor performs the test in private room. Speculum + soft brush. Briefly uncomfortable, rarely painful.

  4. Results

    3-7 working days by phone, WhatsApp, or email. We discuss next steps if anything is flagged.

Preparation checklist

  • Schedule when not menstruating, ideally 10-14 days before your expected period
  • Avoid vaginal intercourse, douching, tampons, or spermicide for 48 hours before the test
  • Wear a skirt on the day for convenience
  • Total visit time: typically 15-20 minutes

Understanding your pap smear results

Pap smear results fall into three broad categories. An "abnormal" result does not mean cancer.

  1. Negative (normal)

    No abnormal cells detected. Continue routine screening per your age-based schedule (3 or 5 years).

  2. ASCUS / LSIL (borderline)

    Minor cellular changes, often related to transient HPV, usually resolve on their own. We may recommend repeat pap in 6-12 months, or co-test for HPV.

  3. HSIL / AGC (higher-grade)

    More significant cellular changes that warrant specialist evaluation. We refer to a gynaecologist for colposcopy (closer examination of the cervix, with biopsy if needed).

Mediway does not perform colposcopy. This is a specialist gynaecology procedure. We handle counselling, repeat testing for low-grade changes, and referral co-ordination. We work with trusted gynaecology partners for patients who need further investigation.

Why regular pap screening matters

  • Cervical cancer is highly preventable: more than any other cancer, regular screening catches cellular changes years before they develop into cancer.
  • Asymptomatic in early stages: you cannot rely on symptoms. By the time bleeding, pain, or discharge appear, cancer may already be advanced.
  • Early treatment is simple: pre-cancerous lesions can be treated with minor procedures; early cancer has >90% five-year survival.
  • Late detection is deadly: advanced cervical cancer has <30% five-year survival. Screening is the single most effective way to prevent this.
  • Vaccination + screening together reduce cervical cancer risk by over 95%.

If you've never had a pap smear or it's been more than 3-5 years since your last one, consider booking. For most women, 5-10 minutes every few years is all it takes to stay protected.

Your privacy, fully protected

Pap smear visits are sensitive for many women. Privacy is protected end-to-end.

  • Private examination room

    Female doctor performs the test in a private examination room, with no one else present.

  • No records shared by default

    Pap smear and HPV test results are not shared with MOH, insurers, or employers unless you request it.

  • Self-pay option

    Pay privately to keep the visit entirely outside insurance systems.

  • Digital result delivery

    Phone, WhatsApp, or secure email, whichever you prefer.

  • PDPA-compliant handling

    Data managed per Singapore's Personal Data Protection Act. See our full Privacy Policy.

Frequently asked questions

01How much does a pap smear cost at Mediway?

Pap smear alone (Thin Prep) is $60. Pap + HPV DNA co-test is $220, recommended for women aged 30+ per Singapore HPB guidelines. Consultation is $38 if needed. All prices inclusive of GST.

02Who should get a pap smear in Singapore?

Singapore's Health Promotion Board recommends: women aged 25-29 every 3 years (pap alone); women aged 30-69 every 5 years with HPV co-test (or every 3 years with pap alone). Earlier or more frequent screening if you have risk factors or prior abnormal results.

03When should I stop getting pap smears?

Screening typically stops at age 70 if prior screenings have been consistently negative and there are no ongoing risk factors. Discuss with your doctor if you're unsure.

04Is a pap smear painful?

Most women describe it as briefly uncomfortable rather than painful. The procedure takes 5-10 minutes. A speculum is gently inserted and a small sample of cells is collected from the cervix using a soft brush.

05What do I do if my pap smear is abnormal?

Don't panic. 'Abnormal' doesn't mean cancer. Most abnormal results indicate cellular changes that may resolve on their own or require monitoring. We counsel you on next steps. For higher-grade changes (HSIL) or persistent concerns, we refer to a gynaecologist for colposcopy.

06Do I need a pap smear if I'm vaccinated against HPV?

Yes. Gardasil-9 covers 9 HPV strains but not all cancer-causing strains. Plus, you may have been exposed to HPV before vaccination. Regular pap smears catch cellular changes that vaccination doesn't prevent. Vaccination + screening together are most effective.

07Can I get a pap smear during my period?

Ideally schedule when you're not menstruating, around 10-14 days before your expected period (mid-cycle). Menstrual blood can affect sample quality. If you arrive on your period, we may reschedule.

08How fast are pap smear results?

Results typically in 3-7 working days. Co-test results (pap + HPV DNA) take 5-7 working days. Delivered by phone, WhatsApp, or email.

Book Pap Smear

Located at The Riverwalk, a 2-minute walk from Clarke Quay MRT (Exit E). Same-day slots usually available · female doctor on request.

Call Us 6909 0190 Mon to Fri 7:30am to 6pm WhatsApp 8779 9898 Fast responses daily Book Online Schedule a visit Same-day slots often available
  • 20 Upper Circular Rd, #B1-26/29 The Riverwalk, Singapore 058416
  • Clarke Quay MRT (NE5), Exit E · 2-minute walk
  • Hours: Mon to Fri 7:30am to 6pm · Sat 7:30am to 1pm

Directions

Located in central Singapore, just a 2-minute walk from Clarke Quay MRT.

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Mediway Medical Centre clinic entrance

Clarke Quay Station (NE5)

Exit E. 2-minute walk along the river towards The Riverwalk building. We are at #B1-26/29.

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