During the routine procedure, cells from your cervix are gently scraped away and examined for abnormal growth. The procedure is done at your doctor’s office. It may be mildly uncomfortable, but ...

A pap smear (or pap test) is a screening for cervical cancer. It involves taking cells from the cervix and vagina and examining them under a microscope. The test is looking for cervical ...

Editor's note: anyone with a cervix can get a Pap smear, but for this article, we included sources who generally referred to these people as women. Going to the doctor for any type of exam can feel ...

The internet is debating whether the discomfort associated with the exam outweighs the benefits. Here's what doctors want you ...

A cervical smear is a test that uses cells collected with a small spatula or soft brush from the uterine cervix. It may be used to test for human papilloma virus (HPV) DNA (HPV testing) or ...

A Pap smear (Pap test) is a routine part of your healthcare screening. They are often performed during your first prenatal visit. Research and professional organizations confirm that it is safe and an ...

Pap smears used to be a no-brainer: You’d see your ob/gyn for your yearly wellness check and would get an annual Pap in the process. But recommendations changed in the last few years and now it’s not ...

Human papillomavirus (HPV) blood tests and Pap smear tests are methods for detecting cervical cancer. Doctors may recommend a person has both tests to check for cervical cancer. Share on Pinterest ...

An abnormal Pap smear means some percentage of your cervix cells appear abnormal in shape or size. In most cases, an abnormal Pap smear does not indicate cancer and is in fact caused by HPV. If you ...

It’s normal to be a jumble of nerves before getting a Pap smear. A Pap can feel awkward, intimidating, or even emotionally triggering for some. Good doctors know their patients might have these ...

Amanda Gardner is a health reporter whose stories have appeared in cnn.com, health.com, cnn.com, WebMD, HealthDay, Self Magazine, the New York Daily News, Teachers & Writers Magazine, the Foreign ...

A Pap test looks for changes in the cells of the cervix that show cervical cancer or conditions that may develop into cancer. Pap screen testing should begin at age 21. Routine screening is ...