Cervical Screening and the Menstrual Cycle
Author Information
Author(s): Sherman M E, Carreon J D, Schiffman M
Primary Institution: National Cancer Institute
Hypothesis
Does the timing of cervical cytology and HPV testing in relation to the menstrual cycle affect the results?
Conclusion
Mid-cycle specimens yield slightly higher HPV DNA loads and slightly increased LSIL interpretations, but the clinical impact is marginal.
Supporting Evidence
- Mid-cycle specimens showed a higher frequency of LSIL cytologic interpretations.
- Unsatisfactory cytology specimens were most likely on days 0–10 of the menstrual cycle.
- HPV load was slightly higher in mid-cycle specimens compared to those collected late in the cycle.
Takeaway
This study looked at how the timing of cervical tests during a woman's menstrual cycle affects the results, finding that testing mid-cycle is a bit better but not by much.
Methodology
The study evaluated liquid-based cytology and HPV test results using Hybrid Capture 2 and PCR by last menstrual period (LMP) across three intervals.
Limitations
The majority of women were young and results may not apply to all women; HPV load measurement may not reflect the concentration in cervical tissue.
Participant Demographics
Participants were women with community cytologic interpretations of ASCUS or LSIL.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI=0.71–0.98
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website