Pap test

A Pap test, also called Pap smear, is a gynecological test to check the cells in the cervix, the opening of the womb, for any abnormalities. A Pap test, along with a pelvic exam, is an important part of your daughter's routine health care because it can lead to early detection and treatment of cervical cancer.

A Pap test can also detect other changes in the cervical area or vagina, including:

• pre-cancerous cells
• yeast infections
• trichomoniasis infections
• bacteria
• viruses
• medications or other chemicals
• hormones
• pregnancy
• miscarriage or abortion

Pap tests at Boston Children's Hospital

Your daughter can receive Pap tests at the Gynecology Program at Boston Children's Hospital.

• Our mission at the Gynecology Program is to provide young women medical advice about when they should begin screening, how often they should be screened, especially when they are at higher than average risk of cervical cancer due to factors such as HIV infection or infection with the HPV virus.
• During her visit to Children's, your daughter will receive whatever treatment or guidance she needs if the test shows any evidence of an abnormality or infection. We offer a Pap Test Evaluation Clinic to evaluate and manage abnormal Pap results.
• The Center for Young Women's Health, part of the Gynecology Program, is a great help to girls with questions about Pap tests. Our website provides detailed, easy to access information for her to read about Pap smears and their results.