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Pap Smear Techniques

The Pap smear is a test used to find abnormalities in the squamous cells that line the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It does not directly detect human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, but can show indications of this virus. Additionally, a Pap smear can reveal a number of different abnormalities that may or may not indicate precancerous cells or cervical cancer itself. A Pap smear should not be painful but may cause discomfort.

  1. Basics

    • A Pap smear is done in a doctor's office and should only take a small amount of time; you should have a yearly exam unless your doctor suggests you get one more frequently. During the exam, you will disrobe at least below the waist, get up on an exam table and put your feet in stirrups.

    Speculum

    • Insertion of the speculum is associated with the greatest discomfort of Pap smears; insertion of the speculum may cause a woman to feel pressure, and it may be cold. This instrument may be metal or plastic. This tool helps the examiner see the cervix by holding the vaginal walls in place.

    Sample

    • The examiner will take a small scraping of cervical squamous cells using a brush and spatula. This should not cause pain, but may feel a little uncomfortable. The sample taken is placed onto a slide or in a special liquid so that it can be sent to a lab for testing.

    Results

    • The average time for results from a Pap test is three weeks per the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, although the Mayo Clinic recommends asking the examiner when results will be available. A number of factors can cause an abnormal result, ranging from dryness or inflammation of the cervix to possibly precancerous cells, as well as cervical cancer per the American Academy of Family Physicians. A woman who receives an abnormal result should not assume she has cancer.

    Follow-Up

    • It is normal for a doctor to recommend follow-up testing for an abnormal result on a Pap smear. This follow-up may consist of another Pap smear or an HPV test. Other procedures include endocervical curettage, taking a sample from the endocervical canal with an instrument called a curette, or colposcopy, which uses a magnifying device to view the cells of the cervix more closely. A biopsy may be done in conjunction with colposcopy if regions of abnormal cells are found.

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