Pap Smear Introduction
The Pap Smear, also called the Pap Test, is a cervical cancer screening test.
It is not used to detect other kinds of cancer. It is done in a doctor's
office or a clinic. This test can find abnormal cells in the cervix that may
turn into cancer if they're not treated.
During the test, the doctor or nurse uses a plastic or metal instrument, called a speculum, to widen the vagina. This helps the doctor or nurse examine the vagina and the cervix, and collect a few cells and mucus from the cervix and the area around it. These cells are placed on a slide and sent to a laboratory to be checked for abnormal cells.
The doctor or nurse also performs a pelvic exam, checking the uterus, ovaries and other organs to make sure there are no problems. There are times when a doctor may perform a pelvic exam without giving you a Pap test. Ask your doctor or nurse which tests you're having, if you're unsure.
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