What is this screening?
A Pap smear (or Pap test) collects a sample of cells by swabbing the cervix. The cells are looked at under a microscope to look for any cancerous or pre-cancerous changes. Your doctor may also do an HPV test on the same cervical swab sample. HPV is a virus that is associated with cervical cancer. Your doctor may adjust how often you have Pap smears or perform other tests if you have HPV.
Who needs this screening?
Women age 21 and above should be tested regularly. How often you need a Pap smear will depend on the results of your prior Pap tests. Your doctor will tell you when you are due for your next test.