Gynecologists generally recommend that patients visit them for annual checkups. They will run various wellness tests during this appointment to check for women’s health issues. A Pap smear will likely be among these tests. This guide will outline the basics of Pap smears, what you can expect during your first procedure, and what will happen if the test is abnormal.

What to Know About Pap Smears

What Is a Pap Smear?

It’s a routine procedure that checks for cervical cancer or abnormal cervical cells. During this test, your doctor will collect cells from the cervix and send them for testing. Since cervical cancer is a serious women’s health issue, detecting any cancerous cells early will increase the chances of successful treatment. 

How Old Should You Be When You Get One?

Your gynecologist will likely recommend that you start getting a Pap smear at age 21. You will likely need to receive routine testing until you are about 65 years old. If you are sexually active before the age of 21, your doctor may recommend that you start screenings earlier. 

How Often Do You Need One?

Most women between the ages of 21 and 65 will need a Pap smear about every three years. However, since HPV increases your risk of cervical cancer, your doctor may want to perform testing more often if you have HPV. You may also require more frequent testing if you have HIV, a weakened immune system, a history of abnormal Pap smears, or other women’s health issues. Be sure to discuss your individual risk factors with your doctor to determine the best testing schedule for you.

What Can You Expect During the Test?

During the exam, the doctor will place a speculum into your vagina to hold the walls apart. You may feel pressure from the speculum. The doctor will then use a soft brush or stick to swipe your cervix, removing the speculum when they are finished. 

What If It’s Abnormal?

If the results are abnormal, you will receive a call from your doctor’s office. Remember that an abnormal result does not mean that you have cervical cancer. Your doctor will want you to come in for further testing. Common follow-up tests for abnormal results include colposcopies, in which your doctor will more closely examine your cervical cells. They may also take a biopsy to send the cells for lab analysis. 

If you’re due for a routine Pap smear, call the team at Women’s Wellness Center of New York. Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Dr. Tara Shirazian and her team provide testing and treatment for women’s health issues, as well as education on patient health. Whether you need uterine fibroids removed or have questions about menopause, their team will ensure that you receive personalized and comfortable care. Visit them online to view a full list of their services or call (646) 754-3000 to make an appointment today.