A Pap smear is a test that exams the cells of cervix for changes that can lead to cancer. Even women who've gone through menopause are advised to have periodic Pap tests.
Time Frame
According to the Cleveland Clinic, menopausal women should have a Pap smear every three years following a normal test result.
Function
An abnormal Pap smear can indicate cervical cancer, a condition that can be cured in its earliest stages.
Risks
If a menopausal woman tests positive for the human papillomavirus (HPV), she should get a Pap smear annually, as HPV causes cervical cancer.
Results
Abnormal Pap smear results do not necessarily indicate cervical cancer. Results can range from abnormal cells that indicate the presence of HPV to cells that are precancerous to a positive diagnosis for cervical cancer.
Considerations
See your doctor for a Pap test if you experience abnormal bleeding and vaginal discharge. If your doctor finds abnormalities, he may recommend a colposcopy, a procedure where the vagina and cervix are explored with a camera. In some cases, the doctor will also remove a bit of tissue for further testing.
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