Abnormal cells of the cervix can be detected by the pap test. Early detection of abnormal cells, monitoring and treatment has directly led to a reduction in the number of women developing and dying from cervical cancer. The pap test is now part of a routine gynecological exam. All women over 18 who have ever been sexually active should have a pap test. The frequency will be determined by your doctor depending on your age and risk factors.
Most doctors recommend yearly tests.
If you have never been sexually active you should discuss with your doctor when to start having pap tests. A speculum is placed into the vagina to expand the vaginal walls, this allows the cervix to be viewed clearly. The cells are smeared onto a glass slide and fixed with a solution. The glass slide is sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope. The procedure is usually not painful and only takes a few minutes.