SINGAPORE, January 21st, 2026 – A pap smear test is commonly done to check your cervical health and whether there are any abnormal changes. In Singapore, women aged 25 to 29 who are sexually active are encouraged to get a pap smear as part of preventive measures for cervical and reproductive health concerns.
Pap smear is widely available across different healthcare providers in Singapore, but the cost may vary from one provider to another. Understanding the factors behind the pricing differences can help you make an informed decision about where to get the test. The guide below will help you get to know more about the process and reasons why the cost varies across healthcare providers.
Different Types of Providers & Healthcare Professionals
There is a wide range of healthcare providers across Singapore offering Pap smear screenings, from public to private options. Each provider charges differently and it is one of the factors that influences the overall cost of pap smear.
Subsidised services are a good option if you want something that is more affordable, though you might need to expect some queues. Singaporean citizens and eligible permanent residents can get a subsidised pap smear at public polyclinics and women’s health clinics. Some private GPs or women’s health clinics also offer a subsidised rate, as long as they participate in government subsidise health plan.
Other than that, you can also check out private options. Private clinics often offer more elevated facilities, shorter waiting times, and personalised consultations. Some private clinics may offer a higher cost compared to public providers, since they are generally more comfortable and convenient. If you want to save some money, you can also check whether you have any health insurance plans that could cover pap smear at private clinics.
Beyond the type of clinic, the healthcare professionals who perform the process can also influence the pricing. Pap smear can be done by both General Practitioners (GPs) and Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (OBGYNs). Both are qualified to do the procedure, but sometimes OBGYN-led screenings can cost more since they are specialists and able to give in-depth consultations.
It may also depend on your personal preference, such as whether you feel more comfortable if you are attended by a female doctor or nurse during the screening.
What’s Included in a Pap Smear Test
A pap smear commonly covers a few things, such as:
- Consultation with a doctor
- Cell sample collection from the cervix
- Laboratory test to check the cell sample
- Test result and report, which will be shared through message, phone, or email
Certain clinics offer a pap smear as part of a health screening package, which may include other tests such as an HPV test or an ultrasound. In other cases, doctors may recommend further health screening, vaccination, or follow-up consultations based on the results. These are optional, and normally, you will be charged separately.
Applicable Subsidies or Insurance
Few programmes in Singapore offer subsidised pap smear screening for eligible candidates, such as Screen for Life (SFL) and CHAS. If you are eligible to get a subsidised rate, you can have pap smear screenings for free or a small fee up to $25, depending on the programme chosen.
At the same time, some private health insurance plans also covered a pap smear as part of women’s health screening. The coverage depends on the policy type, which is why it is important to check your insurance eligibility and claim limits to ensure a smooth process.
Average Pap Smear Cost in Singapore
The cost of a pap smear in Singapore varies depending on the healthcare provider that you choose and whether you can get a subsidised rate or insurance coverage.
Public healthcare facilities, most of the time, are affordable. At selected polyclinics, eligible Singaporeans can have it for free or at a subsidised rate up to $25.
For private healthcare providers, the costs are commonly higher. However, it may depend on various factors such as the clinic, whether it is included as part of a package, and the doctors who attended the procedure. Pap smear at private clinics start from $50 and it can cost more if additional consultations are required.
Choosing The Right Healthcare Providers
There are multiple options of healthcare providers to choose from when it comes to pap smear. But it’s not all about choosing the most affordable or the most expensive ones. It’s about choosing the right one for your needs, including comfort, accessibility, and doctor preferences. Choosing a credible and reputable provider is just as crucial as undergoing the test itself. When you know that you’re in good hands, you will feel safe and sure that the test is reliable and accurate.
For women who are looking for pap smear in Singapore, Prologue Lifestyle Medical Clinic is located in the central area and available to support women’s health care. The clinic participates in CHAS and Singapore’s National Screen For Life, which allows eligible women to access subsidised pap smear.
