Pap Smear Test

A Pap Smear (or Pap Test) is a screening method for cervical cancer. The doctor will insert a tool through and stretch the vagina. Then, he will take a sample of cells from the uterus and send it to the laboratory for examination to find abnormal cells or cells that have changed, which may be cancerous. 

Who should get a pap smear test?

It is recommended that you talk to your doctor about when to start getting a Pap smear and how often to get it. The American Cancer Society recommends the following guidelines for getting a Pap smear:

1. All women 21 years of age and older or 3 years after first sexual intercourse, whichever comes first, should start having a Pap smear, thereafter every 1-2 years.
2. Women aged 30 years and over should have a Pap smear every year. If the results are normal for 3 consecutive years, a Pap smear can be done every 3 years, except for those at risk of cervical cancer  , such as those infected with HIV,  infected with HPV (Human Papillomavirus),  those with low immunity, or those whose mothers took diethylstilbestrol during pregnancy. A Pap smear must be done every year.
3. Women aged 70 years and older, if they have had normal test results for 3 consecutive years, no abnormal test results in the past 10 years, and have no risk factors for cervical cancer,  may cancel the Pap smear. 

Preparing for a pap smear

1. You should schedule a Pap smear when you are not menstruating.
2. Do not douche the vagina before the examination.
3. Do not use vaginal suppositories, creams, or spermicides in the vagina for 48 hours prior to the examination.
4. Abstain from sexual intercourse for 24 hours prior to the examination.