PAP Smear

How Should A Woman Prepare For A Pap Smear?

A woman who is still menstruating should schedule a Pap smear about two weeks after the start of the menstrual period. That’s the stage of the cycle when the doctor can obtain the clearest, cleanest sample of cervical cells.
A woman who has reached menopause can schedule a Pap smear at any time of the month.
A woman who is having abnormal bleeding or any other gynecological problem should see her doctor right away.

In the 48 hours before having a Pap smear, a woman should not

douche
have intercourse
take a tub bath
swim
use tampons, spermicides, vaginal lubricants, or feminine deodorant sprays or powders

These activities can irritate the cervix. Avoiding them helps ensure collection of an adequate cell sample.

Nice To Know:

It’s a good idea to avoid scheduling a Pap smear during a holiday season when lab technicians may be preoccupied.

Nice To Know:

Questions A Woman’s Healthcare Provider Will Ask

The healthcare provider who performs a Pap smear will want to know the date of the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period and whether she