A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a procedure that collects cells from the cervix, (lower, narrow end of the uterus). Laboratory analysis of the sample is used to detect any abnormalities that might suggest the presence of infection, inflammation or cervical cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women have their first Pap smear three years after first having sexual relations, or at age 21 if they have not been sexually active. Other experts suggest these tests should begin no later than age 18.

Dr. George Papanicolaou developed the Pap smear more than 60 years ago, and it is now a standard gynecological screening test. As a result, the rate of death from cervical cancer has dropped dramatically over the years. Women who have regular Pap smears are unlikely to develop invasive cervical cancer as the test is effective in detecting precancerous conditions. In addition, it allows for the disease to be detected in its early stages when the cervical cancer is highly treatable.

Each year, 55 million Pap tests are performed in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Approximately 6 percent – or 3.5 million – are found to be abnormal and require some form of medical follow-up.