What Is a Pap Smear? A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is an exam a doctor uses to screen you for cervical cancer. The test can also see changes in your cervical cells that may turn into cancer ...
A Pap smear is a procedure that screens for cervical cancer by testing cells for any abnormalities. If your Pap results are abnormal that does not mean you have cancer, and more likely indicates HPV.
During a Pap smear the most uncomfortable part will be when the doctor inserts a speculum into your vagina. However, the pain should be minimal and brief. Peter Dazeley/Getty Images A Pap smear is a ...