⦁A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. It tests for the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix.

 

⦁The cervix is the opening of the uterus.

 

⦁During the routine procedure, cells from your cervix are gently scraped a way and then examined for abnormal growth.

 

⦁If you are between ages 21 and 29, you should get a Pap test every 3 years.

 

⦁If you are between ages 30 and 64, you should get a Pap test and human papillomavirus (HPV) test together every 5 years or a Pap test alone every 3 years.

 

⦁If you are 65 or older, ask your doctor if you can stop having Pap tests.