Updated Friday, January 25, 2008
Getting a regular Pap test is the most important thing you can do to protect yourself from cervical cancer.
A Pap test can find changes in the cells of the cervix. The cervix is the part of the uterus (or womb) that opens into the vagina.
Where is it done?
Pap tests are performed at doctor's offices and clinics.
How do I prepare?
- Plan to go for your Pap test when you're not having your period, if possible
- Avoid douching or using treatments, lubricants or foam inside your vagina for 48 hours before your appointment
- Remember any unusual signs, for example bleeding between periods or bleeding after sex, so you can tell your health care provider
- Write down your questions
If you have any abnormal bleeding or spotting, contact your doctor or health care provider immediately, even if your most recent Pap test was normal.
How is it done?
Your doctor or nurse asks you to remove your clothing from the waist down and gives you a drape to cover yourself. Then he or she leaves the room. When the doctor or nurse returns, you are asked to lie on the examining table with your legs in stirrups and your bottom to the edge of the table.
To perform the procedure, your doctor or nurse inserts an instrument called a speculum into your vagina for a clear view of your cervix. She or he gently collects a sample of cells from your cervix using a small spatula or brush.
The test only takes a few minutes. It might feel a bit uncomfortable, but that’s likely because you’re tense. A Pap test is safe. You won't be injured. Try to relax, and remember – to protect yourself from cervical cancer you only need this test once every one or two years.
How often should I get screened?
Once a year for the first three years. If these results are normal, then you can get tested every two years.
Screening may be stopped after age 69 if you have had no abnormal results. Women who have passed menopause or had their tubes tied should be screened.
If you’re not sure what to do, or you’ve had a total hysterectomy (surgery to remove the entire uterus with cervix), ask your doctor or health care provider what’s best for you.
Where does the sample go?
The sample collected in your Pap test goes to the Cervical Cancer Screening Laboratory in Vancouver. A technologist examines your sample under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.
What about my result?
Within six to eight weeks of your Pap test, the Cervical Cancer Screening Program will send a report to your doctor or nurse. She or he will usually contact you only if abnormal cells were found.
Most women will have a normal result. In this case, continue with your regular screening. Abnormal Pap test results require follow-up.
Is cervical screening (the Pap test) reliable?
Cervical screening finds most cases of cervical cancer, but no screening test is perfect. Regular screening offers the best protection against cervical cancer.
To find out about new directions in cervical screening, read about the HPV Focal Study and the HPV vaccine.
Recommended Links
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada – www.sexualityandu.ca