Further screenings for the early detection of cervical cancer

All medically necessary examinations for the early detection of cervical cancer are paid for by SBK. However, many women are offered additional examinations in doctor’s practices as part of cervical cancer screening, which they have to pay for themselves. These are referred to as personalised healthcare services (IGeL). They include, for example, gynaecological ultrasound of the uterus and thin-layer cytology. They are not recommended as early detection screenings for healthy women, as additional tests have no advantages. Instead, there is an increased risk of frightening women with abnormal findings or subjecting them to overtreatment. Every woman should therefore decide for herself whether she wants to have such an examination. To do this, it is important to clarify all essential questions about the examination and weigh up the possible advantages and disadvantages.

Thin-layer cytology

In thin-layer cytology, the cells from the Pap test (cervical smear) are additionally cleaned before microscopic examination. The advantage of this examination is that the cells of the cervix can be better identified and examined as a result of the cleaning process. However, there is currently no evidence that thin-layer cytology provides more accurate microscopic results. According to the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA), it is not superior to the routine cervical examination (Pap test). More information can be found on the IGeL Monitor website.

Thin-layer cytology usually costs between 25 and 53 euros. As it is an IGeL service, the costs must be paid for privately.

Gynaecological ultrasound

A gynaecological or vaginal ultrasound examines the uterus and fallopian tubes for abnormalities. The hope is that the ultrasound will enable early diagnosis and thus the possibility of timely treatment. However, a gynaecological ultrasound alone is not sufficient to make a reliable diagnosis. There are many more abnormal ultrasound images than there are actual cases of cancer. As a result, many women receive a false diagnosis and undergo unnecessary further examinations, including surgical procedures, which can lead to psychological stress. Furthermore, the benefits of gynaecological ultrasound as early detection screening for reducing mortality have not yet been proven. More information on gynaecological ultrasound is available from the IGeL Monitor.

The cost of a gynaecological ultrasound for early detection ranges from approximately 35 to 75 euros, depending on the scope of the examination. Since ultrasound for early detection (i.e. without suspicion) is an IGeL service, the costs cannot be covered by SBK.

Note: Gynaecological ultrasound is only a private service in the context of early detection. As soon as abnormalities such as pain, suspicion during a tactile examination or similar are present, the gynaecologist may carry out further examinations, such as a necessary ultrasound, for further clarification. In this case, gynaecological ultrasound is no longer an early detection screening, so we will cover the costs.