A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a procedure used to screen for cervical cancer in women. It involves collecting cells from the cervix — the lower, narrow end of the uterus that's at the top of the vagina. A Pap smear can also detect changes in cervical cells that suggest cancer may develop in the future. Detecting these abnormal cells early is the first step in preventing cervical cancer.
