Pap Test (Pap Smear)

Pap tests are done to monitor women for early changes in their cervix that could be signs of cervical cancer or precancerous conditions like cervical dysplasia. A Pap test can help identify cervical cancer before symptoms show, making for better treatment outcomes. The main cause of cervical cancer is a virus called HPV (human papillomavirus). There are many strains of HPV, but only a few of them are known to cause cancer. Some strains of HPV can cause genital warts.

Pap tests begin at age 21 and occur every three years until age 29. From ages 30-65, co-testing with HPV every five years. Individuals with female reproductive organs should continue to have an annual well-woman pelvic exam with their doctor to check and discuss other gynecological cancer risks, as the Pap test only checks for cervical cancer and not other gynecological cancer types.

You will be asked to remove your clothes, at least from the waist down. You will be given a gown to put on, and you may be given a sheet or cloth to cover your legs. You will lie on the exam table, put your feet in the stirrups, and move toward the end of the table. Before the doctor examines you, he or she will ask you to relax and let your knees fall outward. The more relaxed you are, the easier the exam will be.

Once you are in the correct position, the doctor will insert a device called a speculum. This is used to hold your vaginal canal open during the test. Many doctor’s offices will warm the speculum before inserting it to make it more comfortable for you. Once the speculum is in, the doctor will use a long swab to gather cells from your cervix. This should not be painful, but some women do experience discomfort. Let your doctor know if you experience pain.

The swab will only take a few seconds. After the cells are collected, the doctor will remove the speculum. If you are not having a full pelvic exam, you will be able to get up at that point. If you are, the exam will continue.

Throughout the pelvic exam and Pap test, your doctor should tell you what he or she is doing so you will know what to expect and won’t have any surprises.

After the test, you may bleed a little and may feel some light cramping and discomfort. This should pass within a few hours. If you have heavy bleeding or have severe pain, call your doctor’s office.

The results of the Pap test will tell whether there are any abnormal cells on the cervix. These abnormalities may include cervical dysplasia, a pre-cancerous condition, cervical cancer, or the presence of HPV.

The results of your Pap test could take two to three weeks. Normal results may be mailed or emailed to you, or you can view your results in MyChart. If your results are abnormal, your doctor’s office may call you to set up additional tests or procedures.

If your results are abnormal, do not panic. Not all abnormal Pap tests show cancer or even precancerous cell growth. Your doctor will explain your test results and what your next steps will be.

You should ask your doctor when you should have a Pap test. Most women will have them every three years between ages 21 and 29, and then every five years until age 65 depending on personal history, risk factors, and age.

Any time you have concerns about your reproductive health, you should call your doctor to make an appointment. Whether you’re experiencing pelvic pain, unexplained vaginal bleeding, pain during intercourse, urinary problems, vaginal discharge, itching, redness, or skin changes, we’re here to help. Don’t delay. Most conditions are not serious and can be addressed with treatment; however, serious conditions such as ovarian cancer do not always cause obvious symptoms. If you notice any changes or just don’t feel right, don’t hesitate to call.