About Cervical Cancer Screening

An abnormal growth of cells located on the cervix, the opening that connects the uterus to the vaginal canal. When caught early, it is treatable.

A Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, is a screening test that collects cells from your cervix. This test examines for irregular cells. 

The HPV test is an additional test that can be performed on the sample taken from a pap test. It looks for a virus called Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which can cause cervical cancer if not treated.

There are a few steps to a Pap smear screening:

1. The doctor will ask you to undress completely from the waist down.

2. A metal or plastic instrument, called a speculum, will be inserted into the vaginal opening to help the doctor reach your cervix. 

3. The doctor will examine your cervix for irregularities. 

4. A brush will be inserted through the speculum and into your vaginal canal, to collect cells and mucus. 

There are different guidelines for when to get your Pap smear depending on your age:

• Begin Ages 21-29

  • Get a Pap test every 3 years 

• Ages 30-65

  • Get an HPV test and/or Pap test every 3 to 5 years 

• Ages 65+

  • Depending on medical history, you may not need further screening.

  • Consult your doctor 

If you have certain conditions, including a history of cervical cancer, HIV/AIDS or a weakened immune system, you may need more frequent testing. Ask your provider what is best for you!

Yes! It will not interfere with the test.

It can take up to 3 weeks to get your results.

It will be uncomfortable, but not painful. 

Ask your doctor about smaller speculum options to make the test more comfortable!

An abnormal Pap smear does not always mean you have cervical cancer. 

Your provider may recommend another test, called a colposcopy , where the doctor will do a similar test as the Pap smear. The doctor will biospy the cervix, or remove some cells for further testing. This will help make a more precise diagnosis.

The biopsy may indicate low-grade or moderate to severe cervical changes. Low-grade cervical changes are monitored over time. Moderate, high, or severe cervical changes can indicate a need for treatment. Your doctor will help you evaluate different treatment options depending on the cervical changes.

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/screening.htm

https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2023/cervical-cancer-is-preventable 

https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/cervical-cancer-screening 

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/my-pap-test-was-abnormal-now-what