Pap Smear Price in the Philippines: PGH Rates & Free Screening
A conventional Pap smear in the Philippines costs ₱638 to ₱900 at several private laboratories for online bookings, while specialist clinics and hospital-based appointments may charge ₱1,500–₱2,750. Liquid-based Pap smear costs approximately ₱1,440–₱2,800 among the private providers reviewed.
At UP–Philippine General Hospital (PGH), the published outpatient-pay rate for a Pap smear through the OB-GYN department is ₱375, while conventional Pap smear laboratory processing is listed at ₱645 for outpatient-pay patients. Lower service rates apply under the hospital’s relevant billing classification.
Free cervical cancer screening is also available through selected government health centers. Depending on the program, patients may receive a Pap smear, HPV DNA test or visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA).
The price you see is not always the total bill. Some clinics charge separately for the OB-GYN consultation, specimen collection, laboratory interpretation or follow-up appointment.
Pap Smear Price in the Philippines
| Test or Facility Type | Published Price |
|---|---|
| Government hospital Pap smear | ₱150–₱375 |
| UP–PGH conventional Pap smear laboratory processing | ₱225 service / ₱645 outpatient-pay |
| Private conventional Pap smear | ₱638–₱900 |
| Conventional Pap smear at specialist and premium clinics | ₱1,500–₱2,750 |
| Private liquid-based Pap smear | ₱1,440–₱2,800 |
| UP–PGH liquid-based cytology | ₱1,695 service / ₱1,915 outpatient-pay |
| UP–PGH HPV DNA PCR test | ₱2,840 service / ₱4,380 outpatient-pay |
| UP–PGH liquid-based Pap + HPV DNA package | ₱3,550 service / ₱4,780 outpatient-pay |
| Free government cervical cancer screening | ₱0 where available |
These are actual published rates from the facilities reviewed, not a nationwide average. A government hospital’s service rate is not automatically available to every patient. Similarly, an online booking discount is not necessarily the clinic’s standard walk-in price.
Conventional Pap Smear Prices at Private Clinics
Hati Health lists conventional Pap smear appointments at multiple participating clinics in Metro Manila, Cebu and other Philippine locations.
The booking platform displays both discounted online prices and higher reference prices. For comparing actual booking offers, the discounted price is the relevant figure.
| Clinic | Location | Online Pap Smear Price |
|---|---|---|
| TopHealth Makati | Makati | ₱638 |
| Hi-Precision | Participating branches nationwide | From ₱660 |
| Hara Clinic | Pasig City | ₱800 |
| Hi-Precision Cebu | Cebu branches | ₱840 |
| Hi-Precision Plus | Participating branches | From ₱840 |
| Exact Check | Banawe and Libis, Quezon City | ₱900 |
| Ashrey Diagnostic Center | Makati and Taguig | ₱1,500 |
| Balbido Medical Clinic | Alabang, Muntinlupa | ₱1,500 |
| GAIA OB-GYN Ultrasound Clinic | Parañaque and Biñan | ₱1,500 |
| La Sante Medical & Diagnostic Center | Ermita, Manila | ₱1,500 |
| Healthway QualiMed | PGH Faculty Medical Arts Building, Manila | ₱1,800 |
| ACE Medical Center | Mandaluyong | ₱2,340 |
| Shinagawa Diagnostic & Preventive Care | BGC, Taguig | ₱2,750 |
These prices are displayed through Hati Health’s online booking platform, not independently confirmed walk-in quotations from every clinic. The lower-priced diagnostic laboratory options start at ₱638–₱900. Specialist OB-GYN clinics and premium medical centers may charge significantly more.
Before booking: Check whether the price includes the healthcare professional who collects the specimen, laboratory reading, and result release. A higher-priced appointment does not automatically include an OB-GYN consultation.
Liquid-Based Pap Smear Price in the Philippines
A liquid-based Pap smear collects cervical cells into a liquid preservative instead of transferring them directly onto a glass slide. The laboratory then prepares the specimen for microscopic examination.
Published private booking prices are generally higher than conventional Pap smear prices.
| Clinic | Location | Online Liquid-Based Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hi-Precision | Participating branches | ₱1,440 |
| Balbido Medical Clinic | Alabang | ₱1,600 |
| Hi-Precision Plus | Participating branches | ₱1,800 |
| Hara Clinic | Pasig | ₱2,200 |
| GAIA OB-GYN Ultrasound Clinic | Parañaque and Biñan | ₱2,500 |
| Healthway QualiMed | Manila | ₱2,800 |
For example, Hati currently advertises a conventional Pap smear starting at ₱660 at Hi-Precision and a liquid-based Pap smear starting at ₱1,440. That is a difference of ₱780 between those two advertised starting rates.
This does not mean liquid-based cytology is always necessary or that every conventional specimen is inferior.
Both methods are used to identify abnormal cervical cells. The best choice depends on the provider’s recommendation, laboratory facilities and your medical circumstances.
How Much Is a Pap Smear at Hi-Precision?
Hi-Precision is among the more affordable private providers with multiple locations listed through Hati Health.
| Hi-Precision Test | Published Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Conventional Pap smear | ₱660 |
| Conventional Pap smear — Cebu | ₱840 |
| Conventional Pap smear — Hi-Precision Plus | ₱840 |
| Liquid-based Pap smear | ₱1,440 |
| Liquid-based Pap smear — Hi-Precision Plus | ₱1,800 |
Rates can vary by branch and promotional period.
Does Hi-Precision Accept Walk-In Pap Smear Patients?
Hati’s booking instructions require appointment confirmation for appointment-based services. Check directly with the selected branch before arriving.
Its published schedule advisory states that Pap smear procedures are unavailable on Sundays at Hi-Precision and Hi-Precision Plus branches.
You should also follow the laboratory’s preparation instructions, including restrictions on menstruation, sexual contact and vaginal products before the appointment.
Is the OB-GYN Consultation Included?
Do not assume it is. Ask whether the quoted amount covers the complete examination or only the Pap smear booking. If an additional OB-GYN consultation is required, request that fee before confirming your appointment.
Pap Smear Prices at UP–Philippine General Hospital
UP–Philippine General Hospital in Manila publishes detailed service rates for Pap smears, liquid-based cytology, HPV DNA testing and related gynecological procedures. It distinguishes between service rates and outpatient-pay rates.
| PGH Service | Service Rate | Outpatient-Pay Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Pap smear — OB-GYN department | ₱150 | ₱375 |
| Conventional Pap smear — Surgical Pathology | ₱225 | ₱645 |
| Liquid-based cytology, gynecological specimen | ₱1,695 | ₱1,915 |
| HPV DNA PCR test | ₱2,840 | ₱4,380 |
| Liquid-based Pap + HPV DNA PCR package | ₱3,550 | ₱4,780 |
| Colposcopy | ₱200 | ₱600 |
| Cervical punch biopsy — OB-GYN outpatient department | ₱5,680 | Not listed |
PGH also lists an HPV DNA Hybrid Capture II test through its Reproductive Biology Laboratory at an outpatient-pay rate of ₱2,500.
Which PGH Pap Smear Rate Applies to You?
The ₱150 and ₱225 figures are service rates under different hospital departments. They do not mean every walk-in patient can obtain a complete Pap smear for those amounts. For outpatient-pay patients, the hospital publishes:
- ₱375 for the Pap smear under OB-GYN
- ₱645 for conventional Pap smear processing under Surgical Pathology
These are separately listed services. Patients should ask the hospital which department, rate classification and associated charges apply to their visit.
Does PGH Charge Extra for the Pap + HPV Package?
PGH lists a liquid-based cytology plus HPV DNA PCR laboratory package at ₱4,780 for outpatient-pay patients. Its detailed service schedule also identifies a ₱500 reader’s or professional fee associated with the combined package.
Ask whether this fee is already included in your hospital quotation or will be billed separately. The price table is a published reference, not confirmation of the current appointment availability or an all-inclusive patient bill.
Other Government and Private Hospital Pap Smear Rates
PGH is not the only hospital publishing cervical cytology prices.
| Hospital | Location | Published Pap Smear Laboratory Price |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Philippines Medical Center | Davao City | ₱150 |
| Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital | Manila | ₱180 |
| San Lazaro Hospital | Manila | ₱200 |
| Ilocos Sur Medical Center | Candon City | ₱300 |
| Dr. Jose Rizal Memorial Hospital | Dapitan City | ₱375 |
| Holy Name University Medical Center | Tagbilaran City | ₱285 |
The Ilocos Sur Medical Center list identifies an update effective December 1, 2025. Holy Name University Medical Center identifies May 2026 clinical pricing. These are published hospital laboratory rates. They should not be compared with private booking prices as though they include identical services.
In some hospitals, specimen collection or an OB-GYN consultation may be billed separately.
Conventional vs. Liquid-Based Pap Smear: Which Should You Choose?
Both methods look for abnormal cervical cells that may indicate precancerous changes or other findings. The main difference is how the collected sample is prepared.
| Feature | Conventional Pap Smear | Liquid-Based Pap Smear |
|---|---|---|
| Sample preparation | Cells spread onto a glass slide | Cells placed into liquid preservative |
| Purpose | Detect abnormal cervical cells | Detect abnormal cervical cells |
| Starting private booking price reviewed | ₱638 | ₱1,440 |
| Sample processing | Direct slide preparation | Laboratory processing from liquid specimen |
| Additional HPV testing | Usually requires separate specimen arrangements | Some laboratories can perform HPV testing using residual sample |
| Availability | Widely offered | Available at participating laboratories |
Liquid-based cytology may reduce some unsatisfactory specimens and can support additional testing when the laboratory’s workflow allows it. However, it is not automatically required for every patient.
If your doctor requests conventional Pap cytology, booking an expensive liquid-based test solely because it sounds newer may not be necessary.
Likewise, if your doctor specifically orders liquid-based cytology or HPV testing from the same specimen, confirm that the selected provider offers that service.
Pap Smear vs. HPV DNA Test: Why the Prices Differ
A Pap smear and an HPV DNA test are related cervical cancer screening methods, but they do not measure the same thing.
- Pap smear: Looks for abnormal changes in cells collected from the cervix.
- HPV DNA test: Looks for infection with high-risk human papillomavirus types associated with cervical cancer.
- VIA: Involves visual examination of the cervix after applying diluted acetic acid.
| Screening Method | Published Price Example | Main Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Pap smear | ₱375 at PGH for outpatient-pay OB-GYN service | Cervical cell changes |
| Liquid-based Pap smear | ₱1,915 at PGH outpatient-pay | Cervical cell changes |
| HPV DNA PCR test | ₱4,380 at PGH outpatient-pay | High-risk HPV detection |
| Pap + HPV package | ₱4,780 at PGH outpatient-pay | Combined laboratory testing |
| VIA at participating public health centers | Free | Visual screening for suspicious cervical changes |
Is Liquid-Based Pap Smear the Same as HPV Testing?
No. Liquid-based cytology remains a method of examining cervical cells. It does not automatically include HPV DNA testing. Some laboratories can use the residual liquid specimen for HPV testing, but that requires the appropriate additional test and laboratory capability.
Do You Need Both a Pap Smear and an HPV Test?
Not everyone needs both tests. Philippine periodic health examination guidance for average-risk, asymptomatic women aged 30–65 recommends cervical cytology every three years or high-risk HPV testing every five years as screening options.
The guideline does not routinely recommend combined Pap and HPV testing for every average-risk patient. If a clinic proposes a combination package, ask whether both tests are appropriate based on your age, screening history and medical risk.
Where Can You Get a Free Pap Smear in the Philippines?
Several LGUs and government health facilities provide free cervical cancer screening. However, free cervical cancer screening does not always mean a free laboratory Pap smear. Some programs offer VIA, while others provide HPV DNA testing or conventional Pap smears.
Quezon City: Free Pap Smear, VIA and HPV DNA Screening
The Quezon City Government operates community-based cervical cancer screening programs.
Its published program information describes:
- Women aged 30–49: Free HPV DNA screening through selected participating facilities and community programs.
- Women aged 50 and older: Pap smear and VIA screening as part of the city’s existing health services.
The city has also conducted special free Pap smear campaigns through the Quezon City Protection Center and Quezon City General Hospital. Availability may depend on program schedules and eligibility.
Ask your nearest QC health center which screening method is currently offered for your age group.
Davao City: Free VIA and Selected Pap Smear Services
Davao City offers free VIA cervical cancer screening through district health centers. According to a May 4, 2026 announcement from the City Health Office, the service is available throughout the year, subject to local schedules.
Some barangays also provide Pap smears alongside VIA.
The city reported that in 2025:
- 10,748 women underwent VIA screening.
- 1,402 women received Pap smear testing.
In the first quarter of 2026, it reported 585 VIA screenings and 411 Pap smears. These figures confirm the city is conducting both types of screening, although Pap smears are not necessarily available at every health center.
How to Find Free Screening Near You
Contact your barangay health center, city health office or government hospital and ask: “May libre po bang cervical cancer screening? Pap smear po ba, HPV DNA test o VIA ang available?”
Also ask about:
- Age eligibility
- Residency requirements
- Appointment schedules
- Referral requirements
- When results will be available
A free HPV DNA test or VIA examination may be an appropriate screening option even when free Pap cytology is unavailable. The appropriate test should be selected according to current clinical guidance and your individual circumstances.
Does PhilHealth YAKAP Cover Pap Smear Tests?
Yes. Pap smear is included among the laboratory examinations listed under PhilHealth’s primary-care benefit framework, now delivered through the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP).
PhilHealth’s enhanced Konsulta benefit table lists Pap smear among selected tests available when clinically needed as part of primary-care case management.
A February 19, 2026 Philippine Information Agency report also identifies Pap smear among the laboratory services offered through YAKAP.
This is different from PhilHealth’s separate outpatient cancer-screening package under Circular 2025-0014, which lists other selected cancer screening tests but not Pap smear as a separate package.
How to Access Pap Smear Through YAKAP
- Register with a YAKAP primary care clinic. Eligible members can choose a participating provider under PhilHealth’s registration process.
- Have a primary-care assessment. The doctor evaluates whether cervical screening is appropriate.
- Ask about Pap smear availability. The clinic may provide the test directly or arrange services through an applicable provider network.
- Confirm the benefit and charges. Ask if the test is covered under the clinic’s arrangements and whether there is any out-of-pocket payment.
- Follow the provider’s instructions. Complete screening and collect the result through the arranged process.
Is a Pap Smear Automatically Free for Every PhilHealth Member?
Not necessarily. Being a covered service does not mean any patient can walk into any laboratory, buy the test independently and expect PhilHealth reimbursement.
Access depends on clinical indication, registration, the accredited primary-care provider, available services, referral arrangements and current benefit rules. The best first step is to contact your registered YAKAP clinic before paying privately for a Pap smear.
Does an HMO Cover a Pap Smear?
Some HMO plans include cervical cancer screening within an annual physical examination or women’s wellness benefit. Other plans may require a doctor’s request, an accredited provider or a letter of authorization.
Hati Health tags certain participating providers as HMO-accepting, including selected Healthway, Exact Check and Ashrey listings. However, an HMO-accepting clinic does not mean the discounted Hati booking price is automatically payable through insurance.
Ask your HMO whether your plan covers:
- Routine Pap smear screening
- Liquid-based cytology
- HPV DNA testing when indicated
- OB-GYN consultation
- Follow-up after abnormal results
If you are comparing private health coverage, see our Best HMO in the Philippines guide.
Senior Citizen and PWD Discounts
Eligible senior citizens and persons with disabilities may qualify for applicable discounts and VAT exemptions on covered medical services and diagnostic procedures. These benefits are governed by Philippine laws, including RA 9994 and RA 10754.
However, promotional booking rates and statutory discounts may be subject to different billing rules. Ask the provider for an itemized quotation showing which charges are eligible and whether the applicable statutory benefit or promotional rate gives the correct final amount.
How to Prepare for a Pap Smear
Proper preparation can help the laboratory obtain a sample suitable for examination. Hati Health’s current instructions ask patients to:
- Avoid sexual contact for at least 3 days before the procedure.
- Avoid vaginal douches, feminine washes, tampons, contraceptive foams or jellies, vaginal creams and vaginal medications for 3 days before the test.
- Schedule the appointment when there has been no menstruation or spotting for at least 3 days.
Other medical providers may use slightly different preparation windows. Follow the instructions of the specific clinic performing your test. Do not stop prescribed vaginal medicine without asking the prescribing healthcare professional.
Fasting is not normally required for a standalone Pap smear. Bring a valid ID, your appointment confirmation if required, and any previous cervical screening results.
What Happens During a Pap Smear?
The sample collection itself normally takes only a few minutes. A doctor or trained healthcare professional asks you to lie on an examination table. A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to make the cervix visible.
A small brush or other sampling device collects cells from the cervix. The sample is then prepared for microscopic examination at the laboratory. Many patients experience mild pressure or brief discomfort.
If the examination is painful or distressing, tell the healthcare professional. You can ask them to explain each step or discuss adjustments to make the procedure more comfortable.
How Long Does It Take to Get Pap Smear Results?
Results are not always available on the same day. Depending on the laboratory, sample transport and processing workload, results may take several working days or longer.
Some clinics may release results electronically, while others require collection or a follow-up consultation. Ask about the expected turnaround time when you book.
What Happens If the Result Is Abnormal?
An abnormal Pap smear does not automatically mean cervical cancer. It means that the laboratory identified changes in cervical cells. Depending on the result, age and screening history, a clinician may recommend:
- Repeat cervical cytology
- HPV DNA testing
- Colposcopy
- Cervical biopsy when indicated
- Follow-up monitoring
PGH’s published outpatient pay rate for colposcopy is ₱600, while its OB-GYN outpatient schedule separately lists cervical punch biopsy at a service rate of ₱5,680. Those are individual service listings, not guaranteed complete follow-up bills.
Who Should Get a Pap Smear and How Often?
Screening frequency depends on age, health history, previous screening results and individual risk. Recent Philippine clinical practice guidelines for average-risk, asymptomatic women recommend:
| Age Group | General Screening Guidance |
|---|---|
| 21–29 | The recent Philippine periodic health examination guideline recommends against routine cervical cytology or VIA screening in average-risk, asymptomatic women |
| 30–65 | Cervical cytology approximately every 3 years, or high-risk HPV testing approximately every 5 years |
| Over 65 | Screening decisions depend on previous results, screening adequacy and individual risk |
Different international guidelines may recommend different starting ages. Patients with HIV, previous cervical precancer, abnormal results, immune-system conditions or other risk factors may need a different screening approach.
Having symptoms is different from routine screening. Unexplained bleeding after intercourse, bleeding after menopause or persistent unusual discharge warrants medical evaluation rather than waiting for the next scheduled Pap smear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Magkano ang Pap smear sa Pilipinas?
Sa ilang private diagnostic laboratories, nagsisimula sa ₱638–₱900 ang conventional Pap smear kapag nag-book online. Ang liquid-based Pap smear ay mula ₱1,440 sa mga clinic na na-review.
Sa UP–PGH, ₱375 ang published outpatient-pay Pap smear rate sa OB-GYN department. Maaaring may ibang charges depende sa serbisyo.
How Much Is a Pap Smear at Hi-Precision?
Hati Health displays conventional Pap smear appointments starting at approximately ₱660 at participating Hi-Precision branches. Liquid-based Pap smear bookings start at approximately ₱1,440. Different branches and Hi-Precision Plus facilities may have different rates.
Is Pap Smear Free Under PhilHealth?
Pap smear is listed under PhilHealth’s primary-care laboratory benefits. However, access depends on the YAKAP provider’s assessment, service availability and referral arrangements.
Register with a YAKAP clinic and ask whether an indicated Pap smear can be arranged without an additional patient charge.
Can I Get a Pap Smear While Pregnant?
Pap smear screening can be performed during pregnancy when clinically appropriate. Tell the healthcare professional that you are pregnant so the examination and follow-up plan can be adjusted as needed.
Can I Have a Pap Smear During My Period?
Many clinics prefer to schedule Pap smears when there is no menstrual bleeding. Heavy blood contamination can affect sample quality. Hati’s booking instructions specify no menstruation or spotting for three days before the test.
If your period starts before your appointment, contact the clinic for advice.
Do I Need a Pap Smear After HPV Vaccination?
Yes, cervical cancer screening is still recommended for eligible individuals even after HPV vaccination. The vaccine substantially reduces the risk from major high-risk HPV types but does not protect against every possible cause of cervical cancer.
Does a Pap Smear Detect HPV?
A Pap smear identifies abnormal cervical cells. An HPV DNA test detects the presence of high-risk HPV types. The tests serve related but distinct screening purposes.
Is a Pap Smear Painful?
The procedure may cause pressure or mild discomfort, but significant pain should not simply be ignored. Tell the healthcare professional if you feel pain so the examination can be adjusted or stopped when appropriate.
Do I Need a Doctor’s Request?
Some private clinics allow direct Pap smear appointments, while others require a physician’s request or consultation. For PhilHealth YAKAP, the service is arranged through the primary-care assessment and applicable provider process.
How Much Is a Pap Smear and HPV Test Together?
UP–PGH lists a combined liquid-based cytology and HPV DNA PCR laboratory package at ₱4,780 for outpatient-pay patients. The hospital’s schedule separately identifies a reader’s or professional fee for the combined service. Confirm the total payable amount.
Before You Book: What Should You Actually Pay?
The best option depends on what you need and which services are included.
| Your Situation | Practical Starting Point |
|---|---|
| Want the lowest-cost routine screening | Ask your YAKAP clinic or local government health center about eligible free services |
| Need conventional Pap smear privately | Compare online bookings from ₱638 |
| Prefer Hi-Precision | Check current branch rates, starting around ₱660 conventional or ₱1,440 liquid-based |
| Need hospital outpatient screening | Ask PGH which OB-GYN or laboratory rate applies |
| Need HPV DNA testing | Compare the specific HPV testing method, not just the price |
| Doctor requests both cytology and HPV DNA | Check the combined package and whether all professional fees are included |
Before paying, confirm five things:
- Is this conventional Pap smear, liquid-based cytology or HPV DNA testing?
- Does the quoted price include specimen collection, laboratory processing and results?
- Is an OB-GYN consultation required, and is it charged separately?
- Can the screening be arranged through YAKAP, an HMO or a government health program?
- When will results be ready, and is follow-up included?
The cheapest advertised test is not necessarily the cheapest complete appointment. Compare the actual total and the screening method recommended for you.
How CareCostPH Checked These Prices
CareCostPH reviewed publicly available Pap smear pricing from Philippine hospitals, private diagnostic clinics and healthcare booking platforms on October 10, 2026.
The main sources included:
- UP–Philippine General Hospital’s official service and outpatient-pay schedules
- Published hospital laboratory price lists
- Hati Health’s conventional and liquid-based Pap smear listings
- Official Quezon City and Davao City cervical cancer screening announcements
- PhilHealth YAKAP and Konsulta benefit information
- Philippine cervical cancer screening guidelines
Published laboratory service charges were distinguished from private online booking prices, and source dates were checked where available. Prices are examples from identified providers, not nationwide averages. Online promotions and service availability can change.
Read How We Research Prices to learn more about our methodology.
Medical disclaimer: This article provides general price and screening information. Screening eligibility, test selection and follow-up of abnormal findings should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
