A pap test, sometimes referred to as a pap smear, is a treatment used to detect cervical cancer in women.
Cells are collected for a pap smear from your cervix, which is the lower, thin end of your uterus located at the top of your vagina.
Early detection of cervical cancer through a pap smear increases your chances of successful treatment. Additionally, a pap smear can identify changes in your cervical cells that may indicate a future risk of cancer. The first step in preventing cervical cancer involves having an early pap smear to identify any abnormal cells.
The pap smear is typically performed alongside a pelvic exam. For women over the age of 30, the pap test may be conducted together with the human papillomavirus (HPV) test, which is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to cervical cancer. In certain situations, the HPV test may be carried out as a substitute for a pap smear.
Pap smears are essential for women's healthcare and offer several advantages, including:
- Detecting cervical cell changes that may develop into cancer if left untreated
- Help identify cervical cancer in its early stages, making treatment easier.
- Enabling early detection may result in less treatment and a shorter recovery period.
- Detecting dormant HPV infections. The HPV virus can remain dormant for years and then suddenly become active, so it is important for all women to undergo Pap smears, regardless of age or sexual activity.
Pap smears are highly accurate, and regular screenings can reduce cervical cancer rates and mortality by at least 80%. Visit any of the NCI-approved facilities or Empower clinics for testing.
