Cervical Cytology

Also known as: PAP Test; Smear Test; Cervical Screening

Formal name: Papanicolaou smear; cervical/vaginal cytology

Related tests: Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Trichomonas wet prep

The Test Sample

What is being tested?

A cervical cytology test is a test used to detect abnormal or potentially abnormal cells from the uterine cervix (neck of the womb).

How is the sample collected for testing?

The method consists of sampling cells from the cervix. A doctor or nurse inserts an instrument (a speculum) to open the woman's vagina. The sample is obtained using a brush. Most women consider the procedure to be only mildly uncomfortable although some have more discomfort, but it should not be painful. The specimen is put into a special liquid preservative. This cell suspension is processed onto a glass slide, stained, and examined in the laboratory.

You may be asked to refrain from sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours before the test, avoid using vaginal creams or foams in the 48 hours before the test and book the test appointment 10-14 days after the beginning of your last menstrual period.

NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.

Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.

If you don't know what a word or a medical term means, try the Mondofacto Online Medical Dictionary .