What is a Pap Test?
A Pap test is an important screening test which shows changes in the
cells of the cervix which could lead to cancer. (The cervix is the
opening to the uterus.)
When a Pap test is done, some cells from the cervix are taken for
examination. This is done during a routine pelvic exam.
What is a "pelvic exam"?
A pelvic exam is actually quite simple and brief, it involves...
- undressing from the waist down
- lying on an examining table in the doctors' office your feet or knees
supported in "stirrups" located at the bottom end of the table.
- your knees spread open so the genital area is easier to see
There are
four parts to the exam ...
EXTERNAL EXAM
- the vulva (external genitals) are inspected for redness,
rashes or sores
SPECULUM EXAM
- a metal/plastic instrument (warmed up beforehand) is
gently inserted into the vagina to spread its flexible walls
so the cervix (the opening to the uterus) and the inside of
the vagina can be viewed
PAP TEST
- cells are gently taken from the surface of the cervix and "smeared" onto
a glass slide that is then sent to a laboratory to be examined under a
microscope for any precancerous changes
BIMANUAL EXAM
- wearing sterile rubber gloves and using a
lubricating gel, the doctor puts two fingers inside
the vagina to reach the cervix. The other hand
gently presses on top of the abdomen. This checks
the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes for any
lumps, pain or irregularities
Remember
This should not cause you any pain. You might feel some pressure, which
will increase if you tense and 'resist' the insertion of fingers or
speculum.
RELAX... deep breathing and a slight bearing down on the muscles of the
pelvic floor will make all this more comfortable for you!
When and why?
- once you are sexually active (at any age)
- taking the birth control pill
- at 17 or 18 if not sexually active
- if you've noticed any unusual vaginal discharge, itching, odour, burning
- if you've experience painful intercourse
- if you've had unusual/heavy bleeding
- if you've been having any unusual pelvic pain/low back pain
- if you smoke
How often?
- This can vary depending on the results and circumstances, but is usually
done every year to 18 months.
Before your Pap/Pelvic Exam
Some clinics/doctors advise that in the 24 hours before your appointment
you:
DON'T
- have sexual intercourse
- douche
- have a tub bath
- use tampons
DO
- try to schedule the appointment two weeks after the start of your period
- SHOWER!