A Pap test (or Pap smear) is a procedure where your gynecologist will collect cervical cells. This is done by inserting a small instrument called a speculum into the upper part of your vagina. This test can identify if you have cervical cancer. By performing regular Pap tests, there is a higher chance that your gynecologist is able to diagnose you with cervical cancer in its earlier stages, and therefore work toward a cure. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women start receiving Pap tests at the age of 21. For women over the age of 30, a Pap test can be done with an HPV test.
A Pap test may come back abnormal for a number of reasons. These include inflammation, infections (bacterial, Trichomonas, HPV), and precancerous cells. Often times to diagnose cervical cancer, a gynecologist will perform a colposcopy. A colposcopy is done by examining the cervix with a microscope and performing a biopsy of the tissue. The tissue is then examined further to identify the presence of cancerous cells. If cancerous cells are present, the gynecologist could work with you to develop a specific plan for treatment.