Identification

A pap smear (or pap test) takes a few cells from a woman's cervix to check for changes that might indicate cervical cancer.

Function

A pap smear is done as a part of a pelvic exam. The doctor uses an instrument called a speculum to hold open the vagina, then takes a swab of tissue from the cervix. It takes less than a minute and is usually painless.

Rationale

Pap smears can detect cervical cancer in the earliest stage, when it is easiest to treat and cure. A pap smear can even detect infections that can lead to cancer, allowing them to be treated before cancer can develop.

Considerations

It is recommended that women between the ages of 21 and 30 get a pap smear every other year as long as their test results are normal. Women between 30 and 65 are advised to get a pap smear every three years, unless there is an abnormal result that requires further attention or more regular checks.

Significance

If your pap smear is not normal, more tests will be ordered. These tests might include a colposcopy, which allows the doctor to examine the cells of the cervix in better detail; an endocervical curettage, in which a tool is used to scrape more cells from the endocervical canal for more testing; a biopsy, in which a sample of cells are examined closer for more information about any potential problems.

Source:

Women's Health: Pap Test