Pap Smear Specialist

What is a Pap smear?

A Pap smear is a test used to screen women for cervical cancer. This test is completed by your gynecologist on a regular basis to detect changes in the cervix that may point to cancer or develop into cancer in the future. How often you receive a Pap smear depends on your age and health history. Some women must get Pap smears more frequently than others.

The cervix is located at the top of your vagina and consists of the lower, narrow part of the uterus. During the Pap smear, your doctor will collect samples of cells from your cervix. These cells will be sent to a laboratory to identify signs of cervical cancer or precancer.

What should I expect during my Pap smear?

Your Pap smear will be conducted in your doctor’s office on an outpatient basis. You will be asked to undress and wear a gown. Afterward, you will lie on an exam table and place your feet in stirrups that allow your doctor to properly examine you.

A speculum will be inserted into the vagina to widen it so that the upper vagina and cervix are visible. Then, your doctor will use a scraper or cervical brush to collect a sample of cervical cells. You will be allowed to re-dress and then your doctor will explain the next steps.

When will the results of my Pap smear come back?

The samples collected during your Pap smear are sent to a lab for analysis. In many cases, the samples are analyzed for both the Pap smear and HPV testing. HPV is a virus that can cause infections and increase a woman’s risk of cervical and other cancers.

Your doctor will explain how long you must wait before your Pap smear results come in. You may schedule a follow-up when you leave the appointment or your doctor’s office may call you with the results.