Myth: Pap smear is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) test. Fact: A Pap smear is a test used to check the health of the cervix and the areas around it, such as the colon. While getting checked for sexually transmitted infection, a person may be asked to undergo a pap smear but by itself is not made for STI detection. Myth: Pap smears is an extremely painful procedure. Fact: In reality, a pap smear is a quick procedure undertaken by thousands of women yearly. Yes, the procedure is uncomfortable, but it will last only for a few minutes and any discomfort felt is temporary. Myth: Pap smear is an HPV test. Fact: Pap smear can help in detecting HPV. Pap smears do not detect HPV specifically. Pap smears can detect if the cells around and in the cervix are performing normally and can be used primarily for the timely detection of cervical cancer. Myth: If you get a Pap smear before having sex, it means you are not a virgin. Fact: This myth is problematic on two accounts. First, a lot of people associate virginity with hymen breaking, which is not accurate. Virginity has no relation with the breaking of the hymen. In many cases, hymens break during physical activities, and many are born without one. Secondly, it is extremely unlikely that the device used by doctors during a pap smear could break the hymen. If that is a point of concern, speaking to your doctor beforehand can ensure that the hymen remains unaffected. Myth: If a person has only one sexual partner, they do not need to get pap smears. Fact: This is a myth as the pap smear has nothing to do with the number of sexual partners you have and is only used to test how your cells perform.