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 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) called a “speculum” 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
  
  
• the nurse/doctor will then swab the inner walls of your vagina and cervix, to test for possible infections

PAP TEST

• the nurse/doctor will gently scrape cells from the surface of your cervix.  The sample of these cells will be sent to a laboratory to be examined.

BIMANUAL EXAM

• wearing sterile rubber gloves and using a lubricating gel, the nurse/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 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 3 years depending on cervical screening guidelines.

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!