When you visit a gynecologist for your annual women’s wellness exam, you may be due for a Pap test. This is one of the most essential recurring preventive exams that you shouldn’t overlook. To help make you feel more comfortable, here are a few frequently asked questions about this important test.

What You Need to Know About Pap Smears

What is the purpose of a Pap smear?

A Pap smear is a medical exam that screens for cervical cancer. Cells are extracted from your cervix by a gynecologist and tested for cancer; human papillomavirus, which can cause cervical cancer; and other related abnormalities.

When should I get a Pap smear?

All women between the ages of 21 and 65 should be getting Pap smears every three to five years. If you’re under 21, it’s typically recommended that you get your first Pap smear as soon as you become sexually active. Depending on your medical history, previous Pap test results, and other risk factors such as immune system issues or HIV infection, your gynecologist may recommend you get them more often.

What should I expect during a Pap smear?

Once you’re checked in for your appointment, you’ll be asked to change into a paper gown and lay down on an exam table. Typically, you’ll see a set of stirrups, which you will use to prop up your legs. Wearing disposable gloves and using a tool called a speculum to open the walls of your vagina, the gynecologist will check your uterus and ovaries for any abnormalities in shape or size. Then, they’ll insert a small spatula or brush to collect tissue from the inside of your cervix and send it for testing. The entire exam usually takes no longer than a few minutes.

Does a Pap smear hurt?

Generally, a Pap smear shouldn’t cause any pain. However, some women report feeling slight pressure or discomfort when the speculum is inserted into the vagina. You may also feel a light scratching sensation while the gynecologist is extracting the cells from your cervix.

If you’re due for a Pap smear, contact the caring doctors at Innovative Women's Health Specialists in Chattanooga, TN. This all-female team of gynecologists offers a wide range of specialized health services for women of all ages, including annual exams, cancer screenings, obstetrical care, and family planning. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and call (423) 771-9680 to schedule an appointment today.