The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb). The cervix joins the uterus (where a baby grows) to the vagina. The Pap smear is a simple test that detects early abnormal changes in the cervix. When such changes are found, they can be treated before cancer starts. About 90% of Pap smear results are normal. If abnormal cells are detected on the Pap smear, further tests are needed to see whether the changes are serious or not. Simple treatment is often done as an outpatient and will prevent cancer from developing.

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If you have ever had sex and are between the age of 25 and 64, you should have a regular Pap smear, whether you are single or married. If you are over 64 and have never had a Pap smear, or are unsure, you should talk to your doctor about having one. Cervical cancer takes many years to show up, so even if you no longer have periods or haven't had sex for many years, you should still have a Pap smear.

You should have a Pap smear starting from the age of 25 and if this Pap smear is normal, have a second one 12 months later. If the second test is also normal, you should have repeat smears at least every 3 years.

If you have any problems, like bleeding or pain, don't wait until your next Pap smear. See a doctor straight away, even if your last Pap smear was normal.

It is a very safe test that only takes a few minutes. You need to lie on your back or side. The doctor or nurse will use a special instrument called a speculum to gently open the vagina so they can see the cervix. A slim spatula or a small brush is then used to wipe some cells from the cervix. The cells are put on a glass slide or into a bottle of fluid and sent to the laboratory to be checked. The test should not hurt; if it does, tell your doctor or nurse.

It is important to remember that Pap smears look for changes years before cancer develops.
	A "negative" result means your Pap smear is normal
	A "positive" or "abnormal" result usually means there are some early changes in
	the cells of your cervix. It doesn't mean that you have cancer
If you are told you have an abnormal or positive smear, it could be a reaction to a virus, or you may have pre-cancerous cells which needs treating to prevent cancer from developing. Many women experience abnormal smears. Talk to your doctor about the next steps.

	Just register your e-mail address and the date you'd like us to send you a
	reminder to that address. We suggest that you choose a date that is easy for
	you to remember like a birthday or anniversary.
	On the date you choose, we will send an e-mail to the address you give us to
	remind you to call your health care provider and schedule your exam.
	After your first 2 normal Pap test, you only need to repeat the screen every 3
	years.
	Your e-mail address will only be used to remind you to schedule your Pap test
	and to provide you the opportunity to comment on the value of this service.