Pap Test: What to Expect

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The PAP Test

At North Carolina OB/GYN & Midwifery, we provide comprehensive gynecology services, including routine Pap tests. A Pap smear exam and screening for HPV at the recommended intervals is essential for detecting cervical cancer and other abnormalities as early as possible. Our OB/GYN & Midwifery practice is proud to be part of UNC Health system, enabling us to protect and manage your gynecological health and provide convenient access to both routine and specialized services To request an appointment for a Pap test—Contact us today at North Carolina OB/GYN & Midwifery at UNC Health in Holly Springs.

How Often Should You Have a PAP Test?

It is important to remember that even women who are not sexually active or having menstrual periods, can still develop cervical cancer, and all women should have a yearly pelvic exam. The best way to ensure that you are getting the right tests at the appropriate time, is to discuss any questions you have regarding your individual needs with one of our gynecologists. Below are general Pap and HPV testing guidelines: Women Under the Age of Thirty- It is recommended that you have a Pap test at least every three years if your results are normal. Women Over the Age of Thirty- It is recommended that you have both a Pap test and HPV test, this co-testing approach is recommended due to some types of human papillomavirus or HPV being linked to cervical cancer. If your results are normal, Pap and HPV co-testing is recommended every three to five years. Women Unvaccinated for HPV- Women over the age of Thirty, who are unvaccinated for HPV may require more frequent monitoring, particularly if they have tested positive for any one of the nine types of human papillomavirus. To avoid becoming infected with additional strains, your doctor may recommend that you get vaccinated for HPV. Women With Certain Risk Factors- Yearly pap smear exams and HPV testing may be recommended following an abnormal finding for either test. Yearly exams may also be required for women with a health history that includes the following risk factors:

If you have previously been treated for cancer
If you have the HIV infection
If you have a weakened immune system
If you were exposed to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth

What to Expect During Your Pap Test

A Pap smear exam is a simple and quick procedure that involves the following three steps: Step One- You’ll be asked to undress from the waist down and provided with a gown for privacy. Step Two- Once you are properly positioned on the exam table and ready to begin, one of our experienced gynecologists will insert a speculum into your vagina to gently open it. This allows the doctor to visualize your cervix. Step Three- A small sample of cells from your cervix will be collected using a soft brush or spatula. This part of the procedure is generally painless, though you may feel mild pressure or slight discomfort.

Your Pap Test Results: What Happens Next?

After your pap smear exam, the cell sample is sent for laboratory analysis. To help your doctor plan the next steps, a standardized system called Bethesda is used by the lab to place the findings of your Pap test into one of the following result groups: Normal Results- Your test is negative for any abnormalities; no further action is required. You can simply schedule your next annual Pap test. Abnormal Results- Your test is positive for abnormalities; further testing is required when your Pap test results indicate the presence of one or more of the following: Atypical Squamous Cells (ASC)- Some cells were seen that cannot be called normal, but do not meet the requirements to be called precancer. The abnormal cells may be caused by an infection, irritation, recent intercourse, or may be precancerous. Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (SIL) Cells- Changes were seen in the cells that may show signs of precancer. Atypical Glandular Cells- Cell Changes were seen that represent an abnormality than needs to be evaluated more closely. Cancer- Abnormal cells were seen that have spread deeper into the cervix or to other tissues and are cancerous.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Prioritize your health by arranging a Pap smear exam and be sure to ask our team of specialists about an HPV vaccination while you are here. To schedule your Pap test today—Contact North Carolina OB/GYN & Midwifery at UNC Health in Holly Springs.