Advertisement
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Health's Top Stories
Get a weekly look at the most popular stories on Health.com.
Pap Test (Papanicolaou Test or Pap Smear)
content provided by
Healthwise
A Pap test is done to look for changes in the cells of the cervix.
During a Pap test, a small sample of cells from the surface of the cervix is collected. The sample is then spread or smeared on a slide (Pap smear) or mixed in a liquid fixative and sent to a lab to be looked at under a microscope. The cells are examined for cell changes that may be or can lead to cervical cancer.
A Pap test is usually done as part of a woman's regular pelvic exam.
Last Updated:
December 28, 2010- Medical Review:
- Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.
