In an age where health information is just one click away, many myths still prevent women from getting a Pap smear. Separating myths from facts can help encourage more women to prioritize getting screened.

For safe and comfortable screening, you can get your Pap smear at the Care Center Clinic, a PhilHealth YAKAP-accredited clinic.

Myth #1: Getting a Pap smear takes away a woman’s virginity.

Fact: A Pap smear does not take away a woman’s virginity. This myth stems from the belief that the hymen, a thin piece of tissue that partially covers the vaginal opening, determines virginity. In reality, the hymen can stretch or tear from activities like biking, horseback riding, using tampons, or undergoing certain medical exams. Virginity means not having had sexual intercourse. Since a Pap smear is a medical screening and not a sexual activity, it does not affect a patient’s virginity.

Myth #2: Only older women need a Pap smear.

Fact: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends starting regular Pap smears at age 21. For women aged 21 to 29, a Pap smear is usually recommended every three years.

If you are between 30 and 65 years old, talk to your doctor about the most suitable screening option, whether it’s an HPV test, an HPV test along with a Pap smear, or a Pap smear only. If your Pap smear result is normal, your doctor may recommend your next screening in 3 years.

Many women over 65 may no longer need regular cervical cancer screening if they have never had abnormal cervical cells or been diagnosed with cervical cancer.

Myth #3: Pap smears are painful and invasive.

Fact: It is possible to experience slight discomfort during the procedure, but it is generally not painful. The doctor or nurse will carefully place a speculum inside the vagina to help view the cervix, then use a small soft brush to collect a few cells for testing. The procedure is usually fast and only takes a few minutes.

Myth #4: Only women who have had sexual intercourse need a Pap smear.

Fact: A routine cervical cancer screening is recommended by doctors regardless of your sexual experience to screen for cervical cancer.

Myth #4: A Pap smear is required every year.
Fact: Not all women need a Pap smear every year. The frequency of screening may depend on factors like your age, medical history, and previous test results. For most women, screening may only be recommended once every three years.

Myth #5: If you’re healthy and have no symptoms, you do not need a Pap smear.

Fact: According to the Mayo Clinic, when cervical cancer starts, it may not show any signs or symptoms. That’s why regular screening is important, because by the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already be present.