A Pap smear is a routine health screening that identifies potential health concerns. It involves collecting cells from the cervix to examine them for abnormalities. This procedure detects changes that could indicate precancerous cells or cervical cancer.
Understanding the Purpose
The primary purpose of a Pap smear, also known as a Papanicolaou test, is to screen for cervical cancer and precancerous cell changes. It identifies abnormal cells on the cervix that might develop into cancer. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can prevent cervical cancer from developing or progressing, improving outcomes.
While effective for cervical cancer screening, it is important to understand what the Pap smear does not detect. The test is not designed to diagnose sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Its specific focus is on the cellular health of the cervix.
Preparing for Your Pap Smear
Proper preparation helps ensure accurate Pap smear results. Avoid certain activities for 24 to 48 hours before the appointment. This includes sexual intercourse, using tampons, douching, and applying vaginal creams, medicines, or spermicidal foams or jellies. These substances can interfere with the cell sample, leading to unclear results.
Schedule your Pap smear when you are not menstruating. Menstrual bleeding can obscure cervical cells, making the sample difficult for the laboratory to analyze. If your period unexpectedly starts on the day of your appointment, contact your provider to determine whether to proceed or reschedule.
What Happens During the Procedure
A Pap smear is performed in a healthcare provider’s office and takes only a few minutes. You will undress from the waist down and lie on an exam table with your feet placed in stirrups. A drape is often provided for privacy.
The provider inserts a speculum into the vagina. This instrument holds the vaginal walls open to view the cervix. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort as the speculum is inserted and opened. A brush or spatula is used to collect cell samples from the cervix. This quick collection process may cause a mild scratching sensation, and the collected cells are sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination.
Interpreting Your Results and Next Steps
Once the Pap smear sample is analyzed, results fall into one of three categories: normal, abnormal, or unsatisfactory. A normal, or “negative,” result indicates no irregular cells were found. An unsatisfactory result means the lab could not determine if the cells were normal or abnormal, often due to an insufficient sample or interfering factors. A repeat test will likely be necessary.
An abnormal result means some cell changes were detected. This does not automatically indicate cancer; it can signify various conditions, such as inflammation, infection, or precancerous changes. If an abnormal result occurs, your provider will discuss follow-up actions, which may include repeat testing, an HPV test, or a colposcopy, a procedure for a closer examination of the cervix.
Recommended Screening Frequency
The recommended frequency for Pap smear screenings varies by age and individual health factors. For individuals aged 21 to 29, a Pap test alone is recommended every three years. For those aged 30 to 65, screening guidelines suggest a Pap test alone every three years, or a co-test (Pap test combined with an HPV test) every five years. The HPV test checks for human papillomavirus, which causes most cervical cancers.
Screening can be discontinued after age 65 if there is a history of consistent normal results and no history of severe cervical cell abnormalities or cervical cancer. Specific recommendations can differ based on personal medical history or other risk factors. Discuss your individual screening schedule with your healthcare provider for personalized care.