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Pap Smear

Also known as: PAP Test
Formal name: Papanicolaou smear, cervical smear, cervical/vaginal cytology
Related tests: Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Trichomonas wet prep
At A Glance
 
Why get tested?
To screen for cervical cancer and certain vaginal or uterine infections

When to get tested?
If you are a woman over the age of 18 and/or sexually active; annually or as advised by your doctor

Sample required?
Cells from the cervical area

Note: You may be instructed not to douche or tub bathe for 24 hours before the Pap smear is to be performed. You may also be asked to refrain from sexual intercourse for 24 to 48 hours before the test.



This article was last reviewed on March 23, 2005.
 
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