What is a pap test (test)
A Pap test is a test that doctors use to check early signs of cervical cancer. The collar is the lower part of the womb, where it meets the vagina
To take a test, your doctor or nurse gently will the walls of your vagina using a device that looks like a duck mouthpiece. The device is called “speculum”.
Then they will use a small tool to slightly scratch the cells on the surface of your collar.
This may be a little uncomfortable, but won’t usually hurt. The staff of a laboratory will check the cells under the microscope to see if they are unusual.
Don’t expect you to have a doctor or nurse using a speculum. This device, the one that looks like a duck mouthpiece, is also used for other reasons. If the doctor or nurse is using a speculum, ask if you are being tested for cervical cancer.
Tests can detect cancer cells or cells that could turn into cancer, called “precancerous”. the can be treated to try to prevent it from turning into cancer. The test can also usually detect cancer in the early stages, when it can be treated or even cured.