Merzig, Germany  - Cervical cancer checks are ideally performed just after a woman has menstruated, according to a state branch of the German Professional Association of Gynaecologists.

The first 14 days after menstruation are ideal as it is easier to have the cells from the cervix and the mouth of the uterus examined, said a representative Armin Malter.

During those two weeks, the production of oestrogen makes the cells easier to work with. As the hormone fades, the cells become harder to identify. That, in turn, affects the reliability of pap smear tests - a short and painless test that requires the removal of some cells from the outer layer of the cervix and the mouth of the uterus.

Those cells are then examined in a laboratory for changes before being categorized.

Malter says results sometimes take a few days. If anything unusual appears, a new test is conducted or further physical examinations are performed. Gynaecologists recommend annual tests to prevent cervical cancer. (dpa)