What is a Pap Smear?
Written by Dr. Specialist Stine Andreassen
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, PhD in Obstetrics in 2015 and more than 15 years of clinical practice in Obstetrics and Gynecology
A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test or cervical screening test, is a procedure used to collect cells from the cervix for examination. The purpose of the test is to identify abnormal cervical cell changes before they develop into more serious conditions.
Pap smears are an important part of preventive women's healthcare and play a key role in the early detection of cervical cell changes associated with human papillomavirus (HPV).
Why is a Pap smear performed?
A Pap smear is performed to detect abnormal cervical cell changes at an early stage, often before symptoms develop. Regular cervical screening can help healthcare professionals:
Detect cervical cell changes
Identify women who may need further evaluation
Monitor changes over time
Help reduce the risk of cervical cancer through early intervention
Most cervical cell changes are not cancer, but some may require monitoring or treatment.
Who should have a Pap smear?
Recommendations vary between countries and healthcare systems, but cervical screening is generally offered to women within specific age groups as part of national screening programs. A healthcare professional can advise on when screening is recommended based on age, medical history, and local guidelines.
What happens during a Pap smear?
A Pap smear is usually performed during a gynecological examination. The procedure typically involves:
A healthcare professional gently inserting a vaginal speculum into the vagina to visualize the cervix.
A small brush or sampling device being used to collect cells from the cervix.
The sample being sent to a laboratory for analysis.
The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
Does a Pap smear hurt?
Most women experience mild discomfort or pressure rather than pain during a Pap smear. Individual experiences vary depending on factors such as:
Anatomy
Anxiety or tension
Previous examination experiences
The type of speculum used
Healthcare professionals aim to perform the procedure as comfortably as possible.
What do Pap smear results mean?
Most Pap smear results are normal. If abnormal cells are detected, this does not necessarily mean cancer is present. In many cases, the changes are mild and may resolve naturally. Depending on the results, additional testing or follow-up examinations may be recommended. A healthcare professional will explain the results and any next steps.
What is the connection between HPV and Pap smears?
Persistent infection with certain high-risk types of HPV can cause changes in cervical cells. Pap smears and HPV testing help identify these changes early, often before symptoms occur. This allows healthcare professionals to monitor or treat abnormal cells when necessary.
Why is cervical screening important?
Cervical cell changes often cause no symptoms. Regular screening helps identify abnormalities before they progress, making cervical screening one of the most effective preventive healthcare measures available for cervical cancer prevention.
Related resources
What is HPV?
What are cervical cell changes?
What is a pelvic exam?
What is a vaginal speculum?
FAQ – Pap Smear
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A Pap smear is a cervical screening test used to collect cells from the cervix and detect abnormal cell changes.
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A Pap smear is not a cancer test. It is a screening test designed to identify abnormal cervical cells that may require monitoring or further investigation.
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The procedure typically takes only a few minutes, although the overall appointment may be longer.
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Yes. Cervical screening is designed to detect cervical cell changes before symptoms develop.
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An abnormal result does not mean cancer is present. Depending on the findings, your healthcare professional may recommend repeat testing, HPV testing, or further evaluation.
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Yes. Many screening programs include HPV testing alongside or as part of cervical screening.