A Pap smear or Pap test is named after its inventor, Dr. Georgios Papanikolaou. This test can be done as a part of a routine vaginal examination. The practitioner takes a sample of the cells of the cervix and sends them to a laboratory to test them for pre-cancer or cancer. The Pap smear can detect the earliest signs of cervical cancer. If caught early, the chance of curing cervical cancer is very high. Pap smears can also find infections and abnormal cervical cells that can turn into cancer cells. Treatment can prevent most cases of cervical cancer from developing.

At LifeWorks Wellness Center , Pap smears along with pelvic exams, are part of the Well Woman check-up. You need a Pap smear if you are:

• 21 years or older
• under 21 years old and have been sexually active

There is no age limit for the Pap smear and even women who have gone through menopause need regular Pap smears.

Pap Smear Frequency

At LifeWorks Wellness Center we recommend that Pap smears are performed annually. However, this may vary slightly depending on your age and health history. Your healthcare practitioner will be able to advise what is best for you.

The Test

At LifeWorks Wellness Center , your female healthcare practitioner will do a Pap smear during your Well Woman exam. She will make your experience as pleasant as possible by conducting this simple and quick test in a safe and comfortable environment. Your healthcare practitioner will treat your body with respect and will work with you to describe and explain every step of the exam before it happens, so you will know what to expect.

It usually takes 7-10 business days to get Pap smear results and you will be contacted by the clinic with your results.