What happens during the test?
You may feel nervous before the test. If so, take a few deep breaths to help relax. Before the test, you need to undress and put on a paper gown. Store your belongings safely or take important items into the room with you.
Your doctor, or the health care professional performing the test (such as a nurse practitioner), will ask you to lie on an examination table with your feet in stirrups. The doctor will likely ask you to move further down the table, then part of the table folds downwards to allow the doctor to reach you more easily.
The doctor will carefully insert a speculum (a sterile instrument that helps keep the vagina open) for clearer view of the cervix. The speculum is usually lubricated with a sterile lubricant to make insertion easier. The doctor will remove cells from the cervix with a swab, wooden spatula, or brush. The sample is placed in a container and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Samples of bacteria found in the vagina may also be taken at this time.
The test may cause some slight discomfort as the cells are removed. Also, if the speculum is not warm, it may feel somewhat uncomfortable. Make sure to tell the doctor if you feel pain or severe discomfort during the test.
How should I prepare for this test?
Test results are most accurate when you:
- schedule the test for a time when you do not have your menstrual period
- do not douche, take a bath, or use contraceptive creams for 24 hours before the test
- avoid sexual activity for 24 hours before the test
Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any medication allergies and medical conditions that you may have.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you need to stop taking any of your medications before the test.
What can I expect after the test?
You may need to remove excess lubricant after the test with paper towels. Some women experience mild bleeding after the test.
After the test, you may resume your normal activities.
Results
Your doctor receives results of the test a few days or weeks later. The results will indicate if any abnormalities were found. Abnormal cells may be different in size or shape, or may vary in other ways.
Your doctor will review the bacterial analysis as well. Certain bacteria and viruses cause sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Your doctor will be able to tell you if any infection was found.
If treatment is needed, your doctor will consider your test results, age, and medical history when recommending on a treatment option.