The Pap smear, named for its creator, Dr. George Papanicolaou, is a medical screening test health care providers use to check for changes in the cervix that indicate cancer, precancerous conditions or infection. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina or birth canal. The Pap smear is often performed in conjunction with a pelvic exam. The test is noninvasive and a woman can expect only minimal side effects. Not all pelvic exams involve Pap testing.
Spotting
Mild spotting, or light bleeding from the vagina, is normal after a Pap test. This spotting is due to the testing method of using a small spatula or broom-like device to gently remove cells from the cervix. It is normal to experience mild spotting for a couple of days after the test. Light spotting that increases to constant bleeding or that persists for more than 48 hours should be reported to a health care provider.
Cramping
Mild cramping is also normal during or after a Pap test. This cramping should subside within a couple of days. Notify a health care provider if cramping worsens or if it continues past 48 to 72 hours, as this may indicate the need for further examination. Any symptoms perceived as abnormal should be reported to a health care provider immediately.
Infection
While infection from the test itself is not a possible side effect of a Pap test, the test can detect a pre-existing infection. If the test detects an infection, the health care provider who completed the test will provide notification and treatment as necessary.
References
- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Patient Education on The Pap Test
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cervical Cancer Screening
- "Primary Care Medicine: Office Evaluation and Management of the Adult Patient"; Allan H. Goroll, M.D., and Albert G. Mulley, M.D.; 2009
