Pap Smear

What Is a Pap Smear

A Pap smear is a simple, quick, and painless procedure where a small sample of cells is collected from the cervix (the opening of the uterus) using a soft brush.

Why is it done

It is part of cervical cancer screening. As a preventive health check, it can detect precancerous changes or early signs of cervical cancer in women, before symptoms appear. These abnormal cells could develop into cancer if left untreated.

What is an HPV Test

An HPV test is also part of cervical cancer screening.

It checks for certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to cervical cancer and some other cancers (like of the anus, vagina, vulva, or throat).

It can be done:

• On its own as a screening for cervical cancer

• Along with a Pap test (this is called cotesting)

• Or after an unusual Pap test result

This test helps catch problems early - before they turn serious.

Pap smear vs HPV Test

Sometimes guidelines and doctors recommend both tests at the same time - this is called cotesting. It gives a fuller picture of your cervical health.

Pap smear = checks for changes in your cervical cells

HPV test = checks for the virus

References:

1. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/screening-tests/pap-test.html

2. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/hpv-test