 | Frequently asked questions by women Information taken from the brochure "Do I really Need a Pap Test?".  | Do I really need a Pap test? |  | All women over 18 who have ever had sex are advised to have a Pap test every two years, even if they no longer have sex. If a woman starts sexual activity at a younger age, screening should start within two years of first sexual intercourse. |
| Why is it important to have a Pap test? | | Cancer of the cervix is one of the most preventable of all cancers. Pap tests pick up early warning signs that can be treated before cancer develops. By having a Pap test every two years, you're giving yourself a chance for anything to be found and treated if necessary. |
| What causes cancer of the cervix? | | It is not clear exactly what causes cancer of the cervix. Research has shown a link with sexual intercourse and with some forms of the human papillomavirus (HPV or wart virus). If you smoke you may increase your risk of cancer of the cervix. The risk of developing cancer of the cervix increases with age. |
| | | The test checks for changes in the cells of the cervix, located at the top of the vagina. It is a simple test that takes a few minutes and is completely safe. A small spatula or brush is used to wipe the cells from the cervix. The cells are sent to a laboratory to be tested. Having a Pap test can feel uncomfortable, but it should not hurt. If it is painful, tell your doctor or nurse. |
| | | If you are 70 years or over and have had two normal Pap tests within the last five years, you do not need have to continue having Pap tests, but you can do so if you wish. If you are over 70 and have never had a Pap test, you need to have one. Make an appointment to see your doctor or nurse. |
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Yes. The HPV vaccine does not protect against all the HPV types that can cause cervical cancer. All females, whether vaccinated against HPV or not, should have regular Pap smears. The current recommendations are that women should have a Pap smear every two years from the age of 18 or two years after having sex, whichever is later. |
| | | It is important to continue having regular two yearly Pap tests after menopause as the risk of developing cancer of the cervix increases with age. |
| | | Pap tests are a test for well women. If you have any problems make an appointment with your doctor to have these checked. |
| | | Pap tests are about detecting changes before they turn into cancer so that they can be treated. |
| | | If you have ever had sexual intercourse, no matter how long ago, you are at risk of cancer of the cervix and should have a Pap test every two years. |
| | | A Pap test is not used for the detection of STDs. If you are worried that you may have an STD, inform your doctor or nurse to discuss other tests. |
| | | If your last Pap test was more than two years ago, make an appointment as soon as possible. If you wish, ask your doctor or nurse for a long appointment so that plenty of time is available to answer all your questions. |
| | | If you have had a total hysterectomy, that is, your uterus and cervix have been removed, you may not need further Pap tests. Check with your doctor or nurse. |
| | |  You can make an appointment with:
- your doctor
- community or women's health centre
- FPA health clinic
- sexual health clinic
- women's health nurse
- Aboriginal Medical Service
Choose the person and place which is most convenient and where you feel most comfortable. If you would like to have a woman doctor, ask about this when you make an appointment. | | | | A Medicare rebate is available, but the cost of your Pap test may vary depending on where you have it done. Ask your doctor or nurse to confirm what it will cost. |
| | | When you have your Pap test, ask your doctor or nurse how you will find out the result. Most Pap tests are entirely normal and most women should expect a normal result. In a small percentage of Pap tests, abnormalities are found which may require further tests. |
| | | The Pap test is the best test available for the detection of early warning signs of cancer of the cervix. It is estimated that two yearly Pap tests will prevent more than 90% of all cancers of the cervix. |
| | | There is now a service that will help remind you. The NSW Pap Test Register is a confidential record of all Pap tests of women in NSW. It will help you by: - sending you a reminder letter if you are overdue for your next test;
- working with your doctor or nurse to make sure you have follow-up care if needed;
- keeping a history of your results.
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