Your Pap Test:                           

What to Expect  

Inside a woman's body

Talk to your provider about
how often to get a Pap test.

What is a Pap test?

A Pap test is done to check your cervix (the opening of the
uterus) for changes that could lead to cancer. By checking
for those changes, a woman can get the treatment she
needs before it becomes cancer.

Women should start having Pap tests when they are 21
years old. This is an important way to protect yourself from
cancer of the cervix.

What causes cancer of the cervix?

Cancer of the cervix is caused by a virus called human
papillomavirus (HPV) that is passed by skin-to-skin contact.
It can be spread during any kind of sex using the mouth,
vagina, penis, or anus.

There are many types of HPV.

• Some HPV types can cause genital warts. Having this
  type of HPV, or having genital warts does not cause
  cancer.
• Other HPV types can lead to cancer of the cervix.

Most HPV infections go away on their own and cause no
problems.

There are many ways you can lower your chances of
getting HPV.

• Ask about getting the HPV vaccine. It's best to get
  the series of 3 shots done before you start having
  sex.
• The fewer people you have sex with, the lower your
  chances of getting the HPV.
• Use condoms every time you have sex.

How often should I get a Pap test?

It depends!

• You should have your first Pap test when
  you are 21 years old.
• If you are between 21 and 65, you should
  get a Pap test every 3 years.

Some women may need a Pap test more often,
especially if you have had an abnormal test in
the past. Your provider will discuss with you how
often you should come for a Pap test.

What should I do ahead of time?

If this is your first Pap test, you may be a little
worried and uneasy. This is normal. Schedule
the Pap test for a time when you will not be on
your period. For about 48 hours before the test,
do not:

• Have sex
• Use any creams, lubricant, douche or other
  products inside your vagina

These things can affect the result of the Pap test.

If you would like, you can ask a family member
or friend to come with you. 

What happens during the visit? 

Your provider will ask you questions about your
medical history. You may be weighed and have
your blood pressure checked. You will be given
a gown or drape, and asked to undress from the
waist down.

enough so that the cervix can be seen.

You will lie down on on your back on the exam table, and the provider will help you to place your feet in the foot rests at the end of the table. Your legs will be apart so that the provider can gently place the speculum into your vagina.

A speculum is made of plastic or metal.

• A soft swab or brush is used to take a
  sample of cells from the cervix. This
  takes about 30 seconds. You may feel
  some discomfort or pressure, but it
  should not hurt. Tell your provider if
  it does.
• It may help to think about relaxing your
  back, and taking slow, deep breaths. 

What happens after the exam?

Your provider will talk to you about:

• How you will get your result.
• When you will need your next exam or
  Pap test.

© 2012 Department of Health Care Services, Office of Family Planning. Revised 2017.
Any one shown in these photos is a model. The photos are used for illustrative purposes only.                                                                                 
All Rights Reserved. For additional copies, go to: www.familypact.org
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