Jul 20, 2024 · A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is used for cervical cancer screening. Learn how it's done and what the results might mean.

Apr 25, 2025 · At the appointment, take off your clothes below the waist, lie on the exam table, and place your feet in the stirrups. Your doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina and open it a bit to …

Feb 26, 2025 · During the Pap test, the doctor will use a plastic or metal instrument, called a speculum, to look inside your vagina. This helps the doctor examine the vagina and the cervix, and collect a few …

Overview A Pap smear involves your healthcare provider collecting a sample of cells from your cervix to detect cell changes that could lead to cervical cancer.

The Papanicolaou test (abbreviated as Pap test, also known as Pap smear (AE), [1] cervical smear (BE), cervical screening (BE), [2] or smear test (BE)) is a method of cervical screening used to detect …

Oct 30, 2019 · For this test, you’ll lie on an exam table with your feet in stirrups. Your health care provider will gently insert a speculum inside your vagina. The speculum is a metal or plastic duckbill …

Mar 29, 2024 · The test is performed by inserting a speculum into your vagina and collecting some cells from your cervix that are analyzed at a lab. It's usually quick and painless, with minor discomfort.

Sep 26, 2024 · Cells are gently scraped from the cervix and are sent to a laboratory for evaluation. The Pap test itself takes only a few moments. It is usually part of a complete gynecological examination …

Dec 10, 2025 · Key Takeaways A Pap smear is a test used to screen for cervical cancer. Women should have a Pap test every three years beginning at age 21. At age 30, a Pap and HPV test every five …

Abnormal cells found during a Pap test can be a sign of pre-cancerous cervical dysplasia. Here’s what to know about the procedure and what the future of cervical cancer screening may look like.