Pap tests are used to find cervical cancer. Cervical cancer occurs in the lower, narrow end of a woman's womb (uterus) which is called the cervix.The cervix connects the uterus to the birth canal (called the vagina).
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time. Before cancer appears in the cervix, the cells of the cervix go through changes known as dysplasia. Having regular pap tests allows doctors to find dysplasia before it turns into cancer. Dysplasia can be treated. Pap tests are also known as pap smears.
Click on the links below for answers to some questions you may have.
What if they find something unusual on my test?
When should I have a pap test?