A screening test that detects cervical cell changes and HPV early.
The Pap smear evaluates changes in cells taken from the cervix, while the HPV test checks for the virus that increases cancer risk. Regular screening enables cervical cancer to be caught at an early, treatable stage.
Every 3 years from age 21, every 5 years with HPV after age 30.
No, it is a short and usually painless procedure.