What is a Pap Smear?

A pap smear may be done at an annual exam when you go to the gynecologist.   A pap test is a procedure done where a sample of cells is taken from a woman’s cervix.   This procedure is necessary in order to check for abnormalities and cervical cancer. 

A woman is positioned on her back with legs spread apart while the doctor inserts a speculum.   A pap smear is done relatively quick and is often times painless.   However, you may experience a menstrual type cramp while the doctor gets the sample.   The doctor may use a small, soft brush to obtain the sample from your cervix.   The sample is then sent to a laboratory for close examination.

Another part of an annual exam is the bimanual pelvic exam.   This exam usually follows the collection of the samples for the pap smear.   The doctor will insert two fingers, usually with lubrication, into your vagina.   One hand will be inside the vaginal canal to feel for the ovaries and uterus while the other hand is on top of the stomach to feel from the outside. 

Results from a pap smear generally take 2-3 weeks to receive.   Depending on the office you go to, the doctor or nurse may or may not contact you.   Some offices policy is “No news is Good news.”   So if you don’t hear from them, you pap smear came back normal.   If you have not heard back from the office in over a month and are still curious of the results, you can call and request the results. 

When to get a Pap Smear:

It is suggested that you have a pap smear done within a few years of becoming sexually active.   After the age of 21 is when you should have a pap done regardless of sexually activity.   If your results came back negative, yearly pap smears should be done.   Some doctors will do every other year or every 2-3 years in the tests came back normal several years in a row.   Check with your doctor as to what age you should stop having pap smears done.   Most doctors say you can stop after a Total Hysterectomy or after the age of 70 with no history of abnormal pap smears in the last ten years.   Double check with your provider as to what they recommend.