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.
What is a pelvic exam?
In a pelvic exam, the doctor checks the reproductive organs to
see if the size and shape are normal.
This exam is not the same as the Pap test, but it is often done
during the same visit. This exam only takes a few minutes. It is
important for good health.
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- 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.
- 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."
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- 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?
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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."
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- 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.
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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."
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