It checks for changes in the cells of your cervix. The Pap smear tests for abnormal changes in the cervical cells. The Pap smear may also detect viral infections of the cervix. Sometimes the Pap smear can give information about your hormones , especially progesterone and estrogen. Abnormal results can mean there is inflammation, infection, pre-cancer, or cancerous changes on the cervix.
Inflammation can be the result of yeast, gonorrhea , trichomonias, or other vaginal infection.
Sometimes women will have an abnormal vaginal discharge caused by inflammation. Dysplasia is an abnormal group of cells indicating pre-cancerous changes thought to be caused by a virus. Most women should get a Pap smear at least every year, especially if they are sexually active. Your health care provider will recommend how often you should be tested based on your risk factors for cervical cancer. The procedure involves a microscopic examination of the cells in the cervix, or neck of the uterus.