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pap test (papanicolaou test or pap smear)

a pap test is a test that looks for changes in the cells of the cervix. during the test, your doctor collects a small sample of cells from the cervix, the lower part of your uterus. the cells are sent to a lab and tested to see if they contain certain changes that could turn into cervical cancer.

when your pap test result is "abnormal," it means that the test found some cells that don't look normal. they may not be cancer, but you may need more testing to find out for sure.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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