what do routine pap smears test for
Pap test. The Papanicolaou test (abbreviated as Pap test, known earlier as Pap smear, cervical smear, or smear test) is a method of cervical screening used to detect potentially pre-cancerous and cancerous processes in the cervix (opening of the uterus or womb).
The Pap test is generally used as a screening test. A certain percentage of abnormalities in women may go undetected with a single Pap test, which is why it is important to have Pap test done regularly. A significant limitation of the test has to do with sample collection. The Pap test represents a very small sample of cells present on the cervix and in the vaginal area. Even for the most experienced health practitioner, sample collection can be occasionally inadequate and a repeat Pap may be required.