What can a Pap smear detect?

A Pap smear is a screening procedure specifically designed to detect abnormal cervical cells, which can indicate the presence of precancerous conditions or cervical cancer itself. During this test, cells are collected from the cervix and examined microscopically for abnormalities. The primary focus of a Pap smear is to identify dysplastic changes in cervical cells, which may arise due to persistent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections, leading to cervical cancer over time if left untreated.

Other options, while they pertain to women's health, do not accurately represent the primary function of a Pap smear. Inflammatory conditions of the uterus or detection of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may require different tests altogether, such as pelvic exams or STI panels. Hormonal imbalances in females are typically assessed through blood tests rather than cellular sampling from the cervix. Therefore, the Pap smear's specificity for detecting abnormal cervical cells and potential cervical cancer is what makes it a critical tool in preventive health care for women.