How often do I need a Pap smear?

Most women between ages 21 and 65 should have a Pap smear every three years. Depending on your age and history, your provider might also suggest HPV testing every five years. We will discuss the best schedule for your specific health needs.

Does a Pap smear hurt?

You may feel some pressure during the speculum insertion, and the cell collection might feel like a quick pinch or scratch. While it can be slightly uncomfortable, it is a very fast process and should not cause lasting pain.

Can I have a Pap smear while on my period?

It is best to schedule the test when you are not menstruating to ensure the lab gets a clear sample of cells. If you have a light period, we may still be able to perform the test, but heavy bleeding usually requires rescheduling.

Are results available immediately?

No. Because the cells must be examined under a microscope by a pathologist, it usually takes several days to a week to receive your results. Our office will contact you as soon as they are ready.

Pap Smear Screening

Two young women smiling and laughing together outdoors.

Understanding Your Screening: What to Expect During Your Pap Smear

A Pap smear tests for the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells on your cervix. The procedure only takes a few minutes and is performed here in our office.

The Procedure: You will lie on your back on an exam table with your heels in stirrups. Your provider gently inserts a speculum into the vagina to hold the walls apart and gain a clear view of the cervix.
The Sample: We use a soft brush and a flat scraping device called a spatula to collect a light sample of cervical cells.
The Sensation: Inserting the speculum may cause a feeling of pressure in your pelvic area. While the test may be mildly uncomfortable, it does not usually cause long-term pain.
The Evaluation: The sample is transferred to a container or slide and sent to a lab to be examined under a microscope for characteristics that indicate cancer or precancerous conditions.

What to Expect at Your Annual Exam

To ensure the most accurate results for your screening, we recommend the following guidelines:

Timing Your Visit:

Schedule your test for a time when you are not menstruating. If you have your period on the day of the appointment, we may need to reschedule unless the bleeding is very light.

48 Hours Before Your Test:

For two days leading up to your Pap smear, please avoid:

Intercourse
Douching
Using tampons
Using vaginal medicines, sprays, or powders

Three diverse, smiling women in athletic wear posing closely together.

When Should You Schedule a Pap Smear?

Standard Guidelines: Current guidelines recommend that women get regular Pap smears every three years starting at age 21.
High-Risk Factors: You may require more frequent testing if you have a history of cervical cancer, an HIV infection, or a weakened immune system due to chemotherapy or organ transplant.
Monitoring: Patients who have received a previous Pap smear showing precancerous cells.
General Wellness: Any woman seeking a compassionate environment for her routine preventive gynecologic care.

Comprehensive Care for the Concerns That Matter Most

Our providers offer a full range of gynecologic services — from routine preventive care to evaluation and treatment of specific health concerns. Click any item below to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the Providers Who Care for You

Our entire OB/GYN team is here for your gynecologic care, at every location.

Andres Ayuso, MD

Obstetrician & Gynecologist

David Hyler, MD

Board-Certified OB/GYN

Jason Phillips, MD

Board-Certified OBGYN

Pap Smear