The idea of getting a pap smear may be a bit scary, but there’s really nothing to it. A pap smear’s an important and common procedure that’s used to check for abnormally growing cells (precancerous) in the woman’s reproductive system. This is done by taking a small sample from the opening of the uterus at the top of the vagina (cervix) using a swab.

I know that a lot of people don’t go for their pap smears because there are lots of misconceptions about this procedure. Here are a few of these myths as well as some facts about Pap smears.

Myth: Only sexually active people need to get a pap smear

A pap smear test checks for abnormally growing cells. Although the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the common and leading cause of cervical cancer, it’s not the only cause. So whether you’re sexually active or not, doctors recommend that you go for a pap smear test as early as 21 years old. If you’re sexually active before the age of 21, then you should start getting pap smears immediately.

Myth: You only need to test once and you’re covered

It’s generally recommended that women go for pap smear tests every three years. Keep in mind that you may have to test frequently, depending on your test results.

Myth: It’s a painful procedure

While the equipment used during a pap smear test may look intimidating, you shouldn’t feel any pain. When the procedure is done right, you can expect to feel a bit of discomfort at most, and the test’s usually over before you know it.

Myth: Pap smear tests are expensive

This is not true. Although you can get a pap smear done by a gynaecologist (which can be pricey), that’s not the only way to get tested. In fact, you can go to your nearest health clinic or student health centre on campus and make an appointment for a free test.

Myth: I had a Pap smear Test, so I don’t need STI screening

Keep in mind that HPV can live in your body for years before tests can pick it up, so just because your test results indicate that you have ‘normal’ cell growth, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re in the clear. Remember, a pap smear is designed to pick up precancerous cells, while an STI test is designed to check for sexually transmitted infections. It’s important to get frequent STI screening, especially if you’re sexually active.

It’s really hard to make the right sexual reproductive health decisions when you don’t have the right information and that’s why I am here to help. If you haven’t had a pap smear test before, don’t let these myths stop you from getting the procedure done. Take control of your health and get your pap smear and STI screening done. 

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).