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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffA Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is a procedure to test for cervical cancer in women. A Pap smear involves collecting cells from your cervix — the lower, narrow end of your uterus.
Detecting cervical cancer early with a Pap smear gives you a greater chance at a cure, should cervical cancer be detected. A Pap smear can also detect changes in your cervical cells that suggest cancer may develop in the future. Detecting these cells early with a Pap smear is your first step in halting the possible development of cervical cancer.
Why it's done
