About the Pap Test

• The Pap test is simple, fast, and routine.
• The Pap test is the best way to find abnormal cell changes in the cervix. It can find them early, before they turn into cancer.
• The Pap test is normally done at the same time as a pelvic exam.

• The Pap test does not check for HPV. It only checks for cell changes that could become cancer.
• The Pap test does not cause cancer. It also does not prevent pregnancy.
• The Pap test does not detect sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Ask your doctor if you want tests for these.

During the Pap test

• Either a female doctor or female nurse will be with you during the test. For your comfort, your legs will be covered with a sheet.
• Your doctor will take cells from the cervix. Your doctor will use a clean instrument called a "speculum" to see the cervix. Your doctor will use a swab or a small brush to get some cells.

Doctor Vargas: "It is normal to feel nervous. But it is helpful to try to relax as much as possible. You might feel slight discomfort, pressure, or have light bleeding. If you feel uncomfortable, tell the doctor immediately."

After the Pap test

• Your doctor sends the cells to the lab.
• The results come back to your doctor in 1 or 2 weeks.
• If the test results are normal ("negative"), they may not notify you at all. In that case, you should call to be sure that the results are normal.
• If there is something abnormal on the test ("positive"), your doctor should tell you. Then, you should return to see your doctor.
• Most times, an abnormal ("positive") test does not mean that you have cancer. It only means that your doctor needs to do more tests.

Virginia: After a Pap test, is a woman still a virgin?

Nurse Vivian: "Many women who have not had sex yet want to know if they are still virgins after having a Pap test. The Pap test can be done without affecting virginity. To lessen the discomfort, you can ask your doctor to use the smallest speculum."

A few things to remember:

• A Pap test does not cause cancer, does not prevent pregnancy and does not test for STDs.
• Some products may wash away or hide abnormal cells. Unless instructed by your doctor, for 2 days before a Pap test, do not:
  • Douche
  • Use any vaginal medicines
  • Put spermicidal foams, creams, or jellies in your vagina.
• Do not have sexual intercourse for 1 to 2 days before your Pap test. This may cause unclear results.
• After the test, you can go back to your normal activities and return to work right away.
• If you get your period on the day of the test, call your doctor right away to make another appointment. Make the appointment for when you are not having your period.

Rosa: I often feel embarrassed to talk about my body and other private issues.

Nurse Vivian: "Because of our culture, we are not used to talking about sex and intimate parts of the body. But remember, your doctor is used to discussing these sensitive issues every day and wants to help you. Even if you feel embarrassed, remember that this test is important for your health."