The key to a healthy future is prioritizing prevention now. When it comes to women’s health, a Papanicolaou test, or Pap smear, is one of the most important proactive steps you can take. If you’re unfamiliar with this test, use the following guide to gear up for your OB-GYN appointment.

What You Should Know About Pap Smears

What is a Pap smear?

After you lie down on the exam table and set your heels in the stirrups, your OB-GYN uses a special set of tools to take a sample of cells from your cervix—the narrow channel at the bottom of the uterus. They then test the sample for cervical cancer, and in some cases, human papillomavirus (HPV).

When should I get one, and how frequently do I need it?

Most doctors urge patients to start receiving Pap smears at age 21 and to continue scheduling the test every three years. If you smoke, have a weakened immune system, or if cervical cancer runs in your family, your specialist might suggest an annual Pap smear.

Is it painful?

To reach the cervix and take an accurate sample, your OB-GYN needs to create a visible pathway. They do so by opening the walls of the vagina with a clamp-like tool called a speculum. While you might feel pressure when the device is inserted and opened, it shouldn’t be painful. Your doctor then takes the sample with a soft brush or cotton swab and a flat scraping tool, which can be uncomfortable but shouldn’t cause pain.

What happens if it's abnormal?

If abnormal cells are found in the cervix, you aren’t automatically diagnosed with cervical cancer. If your test is marked positive, it may be either benign, precancerous, or cancerous. In this case, your OB-GYN may suggest a colposcopy, during which they closely inspect the cervix and surrounding areas with a magnifying instrument. They may also take another tissue sample and send it to a lab for further analysis.

If you’re due for your next Pap smear, head to one of the Advanced OB-GYN Services offices in St. Peters or Bridgeton, MO. Dr. Joseph Hazan has over 30 years of experience in gynecology and obstetrics, so you can rest assured you’re in capable hands. Whether you need a routine exam, pregnancy preparation services, or fertility help, visit the website to learn about all their offerings. Schedule an appointment at the St. Peters office by calling (636) 928-1800, or dial (314) 291-2140 for the Bridgeton location.