Home > The Pap Test

What is the Pap Test?
The Pap test is done by a doctor to check for changes in the cells of a woman’s cervix. It is a simple and quick test. While you lie on an exam table, the doctor puts an instrument called a speculum into your vagina, opening it to see the cervix. The doctor then takes a few cells from inside and around the cervix, using a special stick or brush. The cells are placed on a glass slide and sent to a lab for examination. Most of the time, the test does not hurt. Some women find it uncomfortable.

I’ve Never Had the Pap Test
That’s okay. It’s never too late. Most doctors will explain each step of the test to you. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor any questions you have about the Pap test or anything else about your health. If you want to bring a friend or family member to your appointment – that’s okay too.

Once You Get the Pap Test
Congratulations! You have made an important first step in taking control of your cervical health. Your Pap test results provide your doctor with information that will help determine your next steps.

What Do My Test Results Mean?
Negative Test Results. If your test results come back negative – that’s good. Negative test results mean that you have normal cells. The only thing you have to do is keep getting Pap tests. Ask your doctor when you should make your next appointment, or your doctor may tell you at the end of each visit.

Postive Test Results. If your test results come back positive, that means that some cells on your cervix are not normal. It does not always mean you have cervical cancer. Sometimes, positive Pap test results can be signs of infection, many of which can be easily treated. Your doctor will decide what to do next. Most of the time, your doctor will want you to come back for another visit.

Abnormal Test Results. Sometimes, Pap test results come back as “abnormal.” If this happens, it means that the lab was not able to tell if your results are positive or negative. Your doctor may want you to come back for another Pap test or other tests or procedures.

How Do I Pay for These Tests?
It is very important to follow up with your doctor after you get the Pap test or other tests and procedures. Even if you do not have insurance, there are ways to get the tests you need.

If you need another Pap test, or more care after you get your test results, you should contact the nearest program funded by the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). This program offers free or low-cost Pap tests to women in need and often, follow-up care. These and other programs are available throughout the United States.

• To find contact information for a program near you, visit the NBCCEDP website or call 1-888-842-6355.

For free or low-cost Pap tests, you can also contact:

• Your state or local health department. They can tell you who in your state offers free or low-cost Pap tests.
• Planned Parenthood. To find the Planned Parenthood office in your area, call 1-800-230-7526 or visit their website at http://www.ppfa.org.

Remember, you are in control of your health and you have to speak up about your needs, including money. See Resources for more information about free Pap tests.