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The Pap test is a quick and simple check for changes to the cells of the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. All women aged between 18 and 70 years should have a Pap test every two years, even if they have had the cervical cancer vaccine. Nine in 10 women who develop cervical cancer either have not had a Pap test or have not had them regularly.
The Pap test is a quick and simple test that checks for changes to the cells of the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. In Australia, regular Pap tests save more than 1,200 women each year from cervical cancer. Nine in 10 women who develop cervical cancer either have not had a Pap test or have not had them regularly.
All women aged between 18 and 70 years who have ever been sexually active should have a Pap test every two years. This includes women who have had the cervical cancer vaccine.
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is almost always linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is spread through genital-skin to genital-skin contact during sexual activity. HPV infection is so common that it can be considered a normal part of being sexually active. Four out of five women will have HPV at some time in their lives.
Although HPV is very common, most women with HPV will not develop cervical cancer. In most cases, HPV clears naturally from the body. This can take one to two years and doesn’t require treatment. Occasionally the virus can persist in the cervical cells and causes cell damage. If these changes are left undetected and untreated, the risk of developing cervical cancer increases.
The Pap test procedure
A Pap test is a simple and quick procedure that is performed by a doctor, Pap test nurse or gynaecologist.
During the test, an instrument called a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina. This allows the cervix (the neck of the womb) to be clearly seen. A small spatula or a tiny brush is then inserted to collect cells from the cervix. These cells are smeared onto a glass slide and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results are usually available within a week.
Pap tests can be uncomfortable but should not hurt. If you feel any pain, tell your doctor, nurse or gynaecologist immediately.
An abnormal Pap test result
An abnormal Pap test result means that either a ‘high-grade’ (more serious) or ‘low-grade’ (less serious) abnormality has been found and that some of the cells of the cervix differ in some way from the normal cells. It rarely means cervical cancer is present.
For many women, more frequent Pap tests will be required for a period of time after an abnormal result. During this time, the cells of the cervix may heal themselves. Regular Pap tests will check for this and also pick up any further changes that might occur. The length of time between your repeat Pap tests will depend on the type of problem you have. Ask your doctor for advice on the right length of time for you.
Cell Change
If minor changes persist or if a ‘high-grade abnormality’ is found, you will be referred to a gynaecologist for an examination called a colposcopy. A colposcope (an instrument that magnifies the cells of the cervix) gives a closer view of the extent and nature of the problem.
There are various treatment options for high-grade abnormalities – your doctor will recommend what’s right for you.
Pap tests are still required even if vaccinated
Two-yearly Pap tests are very important for all women, including those who have had the cervical cancer vaccine. The cervical cancer vaccine protects against the most common types of cancer-causing HPV, but not all of them – cervical cell changes and Pap test abnormalities can still occur.
Where to get help
- Your doctor
- Your local community health centre or women’s health nurse
- Family Planning Victoria Tel. (03) 9257 0100 or 1800 013 952
- Well Women’s Clinics at the Royal Women’s Hospital
- PapScreen Victoria
- Cancer Council Helpline Tel. 13 11 20
- Cancer Council Victoria Multilingual Cancer Information Line Tel. 13 14 50 (Mon to Fri, 9 am to 5 pm) and state the language you need.
Things to remember
- All women aged between 18 and 70 years should have a Pap test every two years, vaccinated or not.
- An abnormal result rarely means cancer.
- Discuss your results with your doctor or nurse.
You might also be interested in:
- Cancer screening.
- Cervical cancer.
- Genital warts.
- Menopause.
- Pap test abnormalities.
- Pap tests and women with disabilities.
- Pap tests for all women.
Want to know more?
Go to More information for support groups, related links and references.
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
(Logo links to further information)
PapScreen Victoria
Fact sheet currently being reviewed.
Last reviewed: May 2011
Content on this website is provided for education and information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. Content has been prepared for Victorian residents and wider Australian audiences, and was accurate at the time of publication. Readers should note that, over time, currency and completeness of the information may change. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.
The Pap test is a quick and simple check for changes to the cells of the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. All women aged between 18 and 70 years should have a Pap test every two years, even if they have had the cervical cancer vaccine. Nine in 10 women who develop cervical cancer either have not had a Pap test or have not had them regularly.
Content on this website is provided for education and information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your qualified health professional. Content has been prepared for Victorian residence and wider Australian audiences, and was accurate at the time of publication. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users are urged to always seek advice from a qualified health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.
For the latest updates and more information, visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
Copyight © 1999/2013 State of Victoria. Reproduced from the Better Health Channel (www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au) at no cost with permission of the Victorian Minister for Health. Unauthorised reproduction and other uses comprised in the copyright are prohibited without permission.
