A Pap test (sometimes called a Pap smear) is sometimes done during a pelvic or gynecologic examination. During a Pap test, the clinician uses a small soft brush to collect cells from the cervix, or the opening of the uterus (womb). The cells are then sent to a laboratory to be examined to determine if they are normal or abnormal. Abnormal cells are often caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The Pap test is separate from other tests for STIs such as gonorrhea or chlamydia but can be done during the gynecologic examination.
Show AllA Pap test, along with a pelvic examination, is an important part of healthcare for women, because it may detect abnormal cells that can lead to cancer (see sidebar). Most cancers of the cervix can be detected early if women have Pap tests regularly. As with many types of cancer, cancer of the cervix is more likely to be successfully treated if it is detected or found early.
Young women should have their first Pap test about 3 years after first sexual intercourse or by age 21, whichever comes first. After that, Pap tests should be done yearly or as recommended by your healthcare provider. Young women who do not yet need a Pap test should regularly see a healthcare provider who can provide counseling about gynecologic health and perform a pelvic examination if needed.
HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States today. There are many types of HPV. Some types cause genital warts, while others cause abnormal Pap tests and cervical cancer. Most people with HPV never know that they have it. In many cases people show no symptoms and/or the body is able to resolve it without treatment.
HPV Infection Prevention and Abnormal Pap Tests
- The most effective way to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HPV is not to have sexual contact or sexual intercourse.
- If you do have sexual intercourse, limiting the number of people you have sexual contact with can help to prevent HPV and other STIs.
- Condoms will not protect you completely against HPV, but are important because they are effective in preventing other STIs such as HIV and Chlamydia.
- Don't smoke - smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer.
- In June 2006 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licensed the first HPV vaccine for females 9-26 years of age to prevent cervical cancer, precancerous genital lesions and genital warts caused by certain types of HPV. Talk to your healthcare provider regarding this vaccine.
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Abnormal Pap Results
According to the National Cancer Institute, when the Pap test shows an unclear or minor abnormality, the test is usually repeated to ensure accuracy.
If the test shows a significant abnormality, a colposcopy may be performed (using an instrument called a colposcope) to closely examine the vagina and the cervix.
A Schiller test may also be performed, in which the cervix is coated with an iodine solution.
A biopsy may be performed in which the physician removes a small amount of cervical tissue for examination by a pathologist. This is the only sure way to determine whether the abnormal cells indicate cancer.
Last Updated:
08/2010
