Pap Smear

Introduction

A Pap smear test is a preventive measure that can detect precancerous or cancerous cervical cells. A yearly Pap smear used to be recommended for for most women, but this changed in 2013. Current guidelines from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommend the following:

• Pap smear once every 3 years for women under 30.


• Pap smear and HPV (human papillomavirus) test every 5 years for women under 65.


• Women over 65 do not need a Pap smear unless there is a history of two or three abnormal test results in the last 5 to 10 years, or if there is a history of dysplasia or cervical cancer.


• Pap smear and HPV testing is not recommended for girls under 21 years of age.

Treatment

A Pap smear is a short in-office procedure. You should avoid douching, using tampons, or sexual intercourse for 24 hours before your test. Schedule your Pap smear for a time when you do not have your period, as blood or fluid may interfere with your test results.


During the Pap smear procedure, you will lie on your back on an examination table. You will place your feet in stirrups to position your pelvis for your examination. Your doctor will gently insert a speculum to open the walls of your vagina. Your doctor will gently scrape your cervix with small instruments to obtain cell samples. The cell samples are preserved and sent to a laboratory for examination.


You may experience slight discomfort or pressure during the test, although many women do not. It is common to have slight bleeding after the procedure. Your doctor will notify you when your test results are received.