Patient Education: Diseases Conditions Treatments & Procedures
Pap Test
How is the Pap test done?
The Pap test is a simple process that a doctor or a nurse can do. The test takes only a few minutes. Your doctor or nurse will gently place an instrument called a speculum in your vagina so that they can see your cervix more clearly. The cervix is the lower part of the womb and is found at the top of the vagina. A spatula and a tiny brush are then used to remove a few cells from your cervix. These cells are then sent to the pathology laboratory for testing.
The Pap test is more effective when:
- you have not douched or used birth control creams or jellies for 48 hours.
- you have not had sex for 24 hours.
- you do not have your period on the day you have the test.
- It is also important that you discuss the Pap test with your doctor or nurse to help relax you when the test is being done. You may also find it helpful to talk with someone you know who has had the Pap test.
