Dr Ong Xiaohui

Cervical cancer and HPV - Screening and management

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers because it almost always develops slowly, from pre-cancerous changes that can be detected and treated long before they become cancer. Dr Ong provides screening, HPV vaccination, and management of abnormal results, all in our clinic.

Why screening matters

Most cervical cancer is caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV. Regular screening picks up cell changes early, when treatment is simple and highly effective. The vast majority of cervical cancers diagnosed at a late stage occur in women who have not been screened regularly.

Screening methods

Pap smear

Cells are gently collected from the cervix and examined under a microscope for abnormalities. It takes a few minutes and is usually painless.

HPV test

HPV testing detects high-risk HPV strains — the cause of almost all cervical cancer. It can be done on its own or together with a Pap smear.

Co-testing

Pap smear and HPV testing done together for the most comprehensive screening.

Who should be screened

  • Women who have ever been sexually active
  • At least every 3 years with Pap smear alone
  • At least every 5 years with HPV testing or co-testing
  • Continue until at least age 65 if previous results have been normal

Dr Ong will help you work out which interval is right for you based on your history. For women with symptoms or previous history of CIN and other risk factors, they will require more frequent screening.

HPV vaccination

HPV vaccination significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer and is a useful addition to (not a replacement for) regular screening.

  • Recommended for girls and women aged 9–26
  • Can be given up to age 45
  • Protects against the HPV strains responsible for most cervical cancer cases
  • Vaccination does not remove the need for regular screening

Management of abnormal results

An abnormal screening result is common and does not mean you have cancer. Most pre-cancerous changes can be monitored or treated with simple procedures. If your screening shows abnormal results, Dr Ong will:

  • Explain what the results actually mean — most are low-grade changes that resolve on their own
  • Recommend further evaluation where needed — typically a colposcopy, a closer examination of the cervix using a magnifying device
  • Perform any necessary biopsies — small tissue samples to confirm the diagnosis
  • Discuss treatment for pre-cancerous changes when indicated, including:
    • LLETZ / LEEP (large loop excision of the transformation zone) — removal of abnormal tissue, usually as a day procedure under local or general anaesthesia
    • Cone biopsy where a larger specimen is needed for diagnosis or treatment
  • Follow-up screening to confirm the changes have resolved

Early detection and treatment of pre-cancerous changes is highly effective at preventing cervical cancer.

Between visits

You can WhatsApp the clinic during clinic hours with follow-up questions, and after-hours messages will be attended to by the next working day.

Book your screening

Cervical cancer in its early stages often has no symptoms. Don't wait for symptoms to book. Cervical screening is also part of a comprehensive women's health screening.

Frequently asked questions

A Pap smear collects cells from the cervix and examines them under a microscope for abnormalities. An HPV test looks for high-risk HPV strains, which cause almost all cervical cancer. The two can be done separately or together (co-testing). Singapore guidelines recommend HPV testing as the primary screening method for women aged 30 and above, and Pap smears for women aged 25 to 29.
For most women, Pap smear is recommended at least every 3 years, while HPV testing or co-testing is recommended at least every 5 years. Screening can usually stop after age 65 if previous results have been consistently normal. Women with previous abnormal results, certain risk factors, or symptoms may need more frequent screening.
A Pap smear takes a few minutes and is usually mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. A speculum is gently inserted to view the cervix, and a small brush collects cells. Letting the doctor know if you feel uncomfortable allows the technique to be adjusted. Many patients say the procedure was easier than they expected.
An abnormal result is common and does not mean you have cancer. Most abnormalities are low-grade cell changes that resolve on their own. Some require closer follow-up with a repeat test, while others may need a colposcopy, which is a closer examination of the cervix using a magnifying device. Dr Ong will explain what your specific result means and what (if anything) needs to happen next.
Yes. The HPV vaccine protects against the strains responsible for most cervical cancer cases, but it does not cover every high-risk strain. Regular screening is still recommended, even if you have completed the vaccination. The vaccine and screening work together as preventive measures.
HPV vaccination is most effective when given before sexual activity begins, and is recommended for girls and women aged 9 to 26. It can still be given up to age 45 in many cases, with the benefit assessed individually based on past exposure and lifestyle. Speak to Dr Ong about whether vaccination is appropriate for you.
It is best to schedule the test when you are not menstruating, as blood can interfere with the sample. Mid-cycle (around 10 to 14 days after the start of your last period) is usually a convenient window. Avoid douching, vaginal medications, or intercourse for 24 hours before the test.
Colposcopy is a closer look at the cervix using a magnifying instrument, usually arranged when screening shows changes that need a more detailed assessment. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes and feels similar to a Pap smear. A small biopsy may be taken if any area looks suspicious. Most women do not need a colposcopy at all.

Ready to See a Specialist?

If you have a gynaecological concern or are looking for an obstetrician, we would welcome the chance to help. Book a consultation to get started.

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Opening Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed