Pap Smear Test: What It Detects & Why It's Important

A pap smear, also called a pap test, is a test that can detect changes of cervical cells. Pap tests are usually done as part of gynecological exams.

Cervical Infections

• A pap smear can detect an infection of the cervix.

Cell Abnormalities

• A pap smear can detect abnormal cells in the cervix. When abnormal cells are detected, the sample is usually sent to a laboratory to see if it contains any signs of cancer or other types of disease.

Cervical Cancer

• Pap smears can detect cervical cancer. If cancer cells are detected, your physician may perform another pap smear to confirm the results or use a colposcope to see the cervical cells in better detail.

HPV

• Pap smears can detect the human papillomavirus, which could cause cervical cancer.

Viral Infections

• A pap smear can detect viral infections such as herpes or genital warts.

Vaginal Infections

• Pap smears can detect vaginal infections such as yeast infections.