Pap smear

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Pap smear (also known as a Pap test or cervical smear) is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that's at the top of the vagina.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The Pap smear is usually done in conjunction with a pelvic exam. In women, the Pap test may be used to screen for several types of cancer, including cancers of the cervix, ovary, vagina, and vulva. During a Pap smear, a device called a speculum is used to hold your vaginal walls apart. A sample of cells from your cervix is collected using a small cone-shaped brush or a tiny wooden spatula (or both). Your doctor then rinses the brush or spatula in a liquid-filled vial and sends the vial to a laboratory for testing.

Purpose[edit | edit source]

The primary purpose of a Pap smear test is to screen for cervical cancer. Early detection and treatment of cervical cancer can significantly increase the likelihood of survival. The Pap smear can detect changes in your cervical cells that suggest cancer may develop in the future.

Risks[edit | edit source]

While the Pap smear procedure is relatively safe, it's not without risks. The test may be uncomfortable but shouldn't cause long-term physical discomfort. False-positive and false-negative results can occur.

Results[edit | edit source]

A Pap smear test result can either be normal or abnormal. If the test results are normal, your chance of getting cervical cancer in the next few years is very low. If the test results are abnormal, this doesn't mean you have cancer. However, it's important to follow up with your doctor to determine the cause of the abnormal cells and to monitor any changes.

See also[edit | edit source]


Pap smear Resources

Find a healthcare provider anywhere in the world quickly and easily!

Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD