A Cross - Sectional Study to Determine the Prevalence of Abnormal Pap Smear in Pregnancy

Background: Cervical cancer ranks among the leading cancers affecting women globally, with over 493, 000 new cases and 274, 000 deaths annually. In India, the incidence rate ranges from 22 to 26.2 cases per lakh women, contributing to a significant mortality rate. The Papanicolaou test, commonly known as the Pap test, is a cervical screening method employed to identify potential pre - cancerous and cancerous conditions in the cervix. Aim & Objective: This study aims to explore the prevalence of abnormal Pap smears in pregnant women and emphasize the importance of cervical screening during the antenatal period. Methods: This hospital - based observational study was conducted at SMS Medical College & Attached Hospitals, Jaipur, from November 2022. Pregnant women aged over 21 years in their second and third trimesters were recruited. Inclusion criteria included live intrauterine gestation, active marital history for over three years, and informed consent. Exclusion criteria included a history of threatened abortion and recent vaginal interventions. After institutional ethical approval, participants underwent a detailed history and examination, followed by a conventional Pap smear analyzed using the Bethesda classification. Results: Among 400 participants, normal smears were observed in 157 women, while inflammation was noted in 243. The highest prevalence of inflammation was found in the 26 - 30 age group. A greater incidence of inflammation was observed among lower - class women. Notably, 80.9% of women with normal smears were multiparous. Conclusion: Antenatal visits present a critical opportunity for cervical cancer screening. Pap smears are a safe, cost - effective method for early detection of cervical abnormalities in pregnant women. Enhancing awareness and access to screening is essential for reducing the cervical cancer burden in India.