A pap smear is a test that checks for cervical cancer. A small sample of cells are 
scraped from the opening of the cervix, and then sent to a lab for examination under a microscope.
How should I prepare? Try to avoid scheduling your pap smear during your period. In the 48 hours prior to the exam, be sure to avoid douching, tampons, sex, and vaginal medications, foams, creams, jellies, etc.
What happens during the test? Pap smears are generally done by your gynecologist at your annual wellness exam. During the test, you lay down on the exam table with your legs spread open in stirrups. The provider inserts a small tool (a speculum) into your vagina to keep it open, and then removes the needed cell sample. The cells are then sent to a lab for microscopic examination. For most women, the test is not painful, but may cause some discomfort. Fortunately, the entire procedure is usually over in just a few minutes.
Why is it important? Cervical cancer is the 4th most common cause of cancer-related death in women. Generally cervical cancer does not have any symptoms, so getting your pap smears on schedule is vital as the primary screening tool. Like many other cancers, the earlier it is detected, the better your chances of survival. Pap smears are highly accurate, and getting one done regularly can decrease your risk of cancer and cancer related-death by 80%.
How often should I get a pap smear? Generally, screening should start at age 21. If sexually active as a teenager, your doctor may recommend that you start your pap smears sooner. After that, the test should be repeated every 3 years. If you have a history of human papillomavirus (HPV) or abnormal pap smears in the past, you may need to get them done more frequently. If aged 30-65, you can get both a pap smear and HPV test every 5 years as long as they both remain negative. Most women can stop having pap smears after age 65 as long as their previous 3 pap smears have been negative.
What do my test results mean? A normal result indicates that there are no abnormal cells present. An abnormal result means that atypical, precancerous, or cancerous cells are present. Your doctor will decide the appropriate intervention depending on the severity of your results.
