Skip to Content. Listen to the Cancer. A Pap test is the most common test used to look for early changes in cells that can lead to cervical cancer. This test is also called a Pap smear. It involves gathering a sample of cells from the cervix. The cervix is the part of the uterus that opens to the vagina. The sample is placed on a glass slide or in a bottle containing a solution to preserve the cells.
Then it is sent to a laboratory for a pathologist to examine under a microscope. A pathologist is a doctor who specializes in reading laboratory tests and evaluating cells, tissues, and organs to diagnose disease. A pathologist can identify abnormal cells by looking at the sample. Abnormal cells can be cancerous, but they are most often treatable, precancerous cellular changes, rather than cervical cancer.
Some of the cells collected from the cervix during a Pap test may also be tested for human papillomavirus, also called HPV. Infection with HPV is a risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV is most commonly passed from person to person during sexual activity. There are different types, or strains, of HPV. Some strains are more strongly linked with certain types of cancer. Your health care provider may test for HPV at the same time as a Pap test.
Or you may need testing for HPV only after Pap test results show abnormal changes to the cervix. HPV testing may also be done separately from a Pap test.
Learn more about HPV and cancer. How often you need to have a Pap test depends on your age, results of previous tests, and other factors.
This article covers vitamins for women and explains vitamin sources, dietary…. A pelvic exam is a visual and physical examination of a woman's reproductive organs. Coronary artery disease reduces blood flow to your heart.
Learn how to recognize coronary artery disease symptoms, how to manage the symptoms, and…. Getting a regular Pap smear test is an important way to screen for STDs and cervical cancers. Learn how frequently you should get one. They can prevent more serious disease and change as you age. Your doctors are there to help you and all women lead healthy lives.
Learn how to get the most out of your healthcare team. From navigating a healthy diet to your mental health, these books will help shed some light on the complex world of women's health.
Learn about factors that affect the kidneys, symptoms, and…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Who needs a Pap smear? How often do you need a Pap smear? Age Pap smear frequency none needed every 3 years every 3 years or an HPV test every 5 years or a Pap test and HPV test together every 5 years 65 and older you may no longer need Pap smear tests; talk to your doctor to determine your needs.
How to prepare for a Pap smear. What happens during a Pap smear? What do the results of a Pap smear mean? This might include regular appointments and tests for a period of time. Cancer Council recommends that women of any age who have symptoms including pain or abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge should see their doctor immediately. The new HPV test can identify women who could be at risk of cervical cancer earlier than a Pap smear. Shop Online. Contact Us. Cancer information What is cancer?
Common cancer symptoms Facts and figures Explore What is cancer? The Pap test sometimes called the Pap smear has changed to the cervical screening test. Cervical screening The new HPV test can identify women who could be at risk of cervical cancer earlier than a Pap smear. National Cervical Screening. HPV vaccine. Breast cancer screening. Early detection of breast cancer. Bowel cancer screening.
Early detection of bowel cancer. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. Minus Related Pages. Knowledge Is Power: Cervical Cancer. Knowledge is Power: Cervical Cancer.
If you are going to have a test in the next two days— You should not douche rinse the vagina with water or another fluid. You should not use a tampon. You should not have sex. You should not use a birth control foam, cream, or jelly.
You should not use a medicine or cream in your vagina.
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