Pap Test

Cervical Smear

Why It Is Done

A Pap test is done to look for changes in the cells of the cervix. Finding these changes and treating them when needed will greatly lower your chance of getting cervical cancer.

A Pap test is usually done as part of a woman's regular pelvic examination. For more information, see the medical test Pelvic Examination.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Ralph Poore	Last Updated: November 23, 2007
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
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