Health and Wellness Services
The Pap Test
The Pap test, also called a Pap smear, is a screening test that helps clinicians detect cellular changes in the cervix (the opening to the uterus, or womb at the end of the vagina). The Pap test includes taking a sample of cells by wiping or scraping a small wooden stick (similar to a tongue depressor) over the cervix. The cells are then put on a glass slide and examined by laboratory personnel to look for changes that might warrant further investigation. During the Pap test you will feel the swab being scraped across the cervix; this feels somewhat scratchy, but is not painful.
It is important to understand that the Pap test is a screening test only. Clinicians do not base treatments on the Pap test alone, but use it to determine whether further diagnosic tests are needed. The reason a Pap test is done is to detect changes before they can become cancer. If your Pap test is abnormal, do not be alarmed. Many women incorrectly believe that an abnormal Pap test means that they have cancer. In fact, the cause of 90% of cervical cell changes is a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). Most conditions detected by an abnormal Pap test are minor and easily treated in the office.
A Pap test can save your life. It can find the earliest signs of cervical cancer - a common cancer in women. If caught early, the chance of curing cervical cancer is very high. Pap tests also can find infections and abnormal cervical cells that can turn into cancer cells. Treatment can prevent most cases of cervical cancer from developing.
Your first Pap test should be given within 3 years of the onset of sexual activity, or at age 21, whichever is sooner, and should be continued yearly until age 30 - 35. Then, if the past 3 annual tests have been normal, tests may be given every 2-3 years (except for high-risk patients who should continue yearly tests, or if yearly tests are recommended by your health care provider).
Who is a High Risk patient?
High risk patients
- have multiple sex partners and/or partners who have had multiple sex partners
- have had a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
- were sexually active before the age of 18
- has or has had human papilloma virus (HPV) or genital warts. There are more than 40 strains of HPV and about a dozen of these have been established as a causative for cervical cancer
- from 60-65 years of age
Preparing for your Pap test
Try to schedule your Pap test for the middle of your menstrual cycle – between 10 and 20 days after the first day of your period.
48 hours before your Pap test:
- avoid vaginal douching
- don’t use any vaginal medications, contraceptive (spermicidal) creams, foams or jellies (except as directed by your physician), as these may wash away or hide abnormal cells
24 hours before your Pap test:
- avoid having sex
What does the Pap Test detect?
The Pap test is used to detect several cellular abnormalities within the cervix.
- Cell dysplasia - Once HPV (human papillomavirus) enters a cell, it takes over the normal cell processes and can radically change the cell it infects. Dysplasia is the term used to describe this abnormal transformation. Dysplastic cells often have odd looking shapes and outlines and may resemble cancer cells. If left unchecked, these useless cells continue to multiply and over a period of years they may entirely replace the normal cells in that area. This condition rarely causes symptoms, but it can usually be detected by the Pap test. As long as these cells remain on the surface, they are considered pre-cancerous.
- Cancer - Malignant Cell Growth - Once the abnormal cells develop the capacity to spread deeper into the physical structure of the cervix, it is considered to be an invasive cancer. In its quest for more space and nourishment, the unrestrained growth destroys nearby tissues and organs.
Paying for your Pap Test
If you have questions regarding insurance coverage of your Pap test you should contact your insurance carrier prior to your appointment. Filing an insurance claim for treatment and laboratory services is the responsibility of the student. Student Health Service does provide students with itemized statements for filing with their health insurance plans. These are available upon request, usually 7-10 days after the date of service. Contact your health insurance company for specific directions on how to file a claim
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Cleveland State University
Health & Wellness Services
2121 Euclid Avenue
SR 153
Cleveland, OH 44115-2214
Campus Location
Science & Research
Room 153
Phone: 216.687.3649
healthandwellness@csuohio.edu
Hours of Operation
Mon & Tue: 8.00am - 5.30pm
Wed - Fri: 8.00am - 5.00pm
Web Contact
Vijay Saradhi Akurati
v.akurati@csuohio.edu
216.687.3649