Do Pap Smears Test For STDs? | Expert Insight & Guidance

When it comes to women’s health, regular screenings are essential for early detection and prevention. A pap (Papanicolaou) test, also called a pap smear, is one of the most well-known early screening tests for women to test for cervical cancer.

It’s important to catch issues before they become cancerous. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 1,600 Canadian women will be diagnosed with it this year, and about 25% will die from it. 

What does a pap smear detect? The test works by detecting abnormal cells in the cervix (the cervix is the opening of the uterus, which connects to the vaginal canal) before they turn cancerous. But abnormal cells aren’t always cancerous — they could be a sign of an infection or another problem and can sometimes heal on their own. Most abnormal changes in cervical cells are due to the Humanpapilloma virus (HPV).

While pap tests are mostly about detecting cancerous cells, many people wonder: does a pap smear test for STDs? In this guide, we’ll cover what a pap test can and cannot do so that you can make informed decisions about your health.

What is a Pap Smear Test?

A pap smear, or pap test, is a routine screening procedure that checks for abnormal cells in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This test is primarily used to detect early signs of cervical cancer, allowing for early intervention and treatment if needed. During the test, a healthcare provider gently collects cell samples from the cervix to examine for any abnormalities, including those caused by HPV, a common virus linked to cervical cancer. Regular pap smears are an essential part of women’s health, helping to prevent cervical cancer by catching issues early.

How Do Pap Tests Work?

Generally, pap tests take place at your family doctor’s office. You’ll undress from the waist down, cover up with a hospital gown, lie on the table, and place your feet in stirrups. Your healthcare provider will use a speculum to spread the walls of the vagina so they have access to the cervix, and with a swab or another small device, your provider will gently scrape cells from the cervix wall and place them in a vial to be sent to a lab for testing.

The Importance of Regular Pap Tests

In Canada, a pap test is recommended every three years for individuals with female reproductive organs who are 25 years and older and who are, or have been, sexually active. Some risk factors may require more frequent testing or an earlier start—be sure to discuss your unique risks with your healthcare provider.

Changes in Screening Frequency

Historically, pap tests were recommended annually starting at age 21. However, research indicated that yearly screenings did not significantly reduce cervical cancer rates, as it typically develops over years. Consequently, the recommended screening interval has been extended to every three years, making it easier to maintain regular cervical cancer prevention.

Impact of HPV Vaccines and Testing

With HPV vaccination, the risk of cervical cancer has decreased by up to 90%. Testing for HPV has proven effective in early detection, as most cervical changes are HPV-related. This has led to formal changes in Canada’s screening guidelines, now aligning with practices in the USA and other countries. These updates recommend delaying initial pap screening to age 25 and incorporating HPV testing.

The Importance of Routine Pap Testing

Regular pap tests are essential for early detection of abnormal cervical cells. These screenings allow for timely intervention before potential development into cervical cancer. Even if you’re healthy, asymptomatic, no longer sexually active, or have gone through menopause, it remains crucial to have regular pap tests, as abnormal cells can emerge at any stage of life.

When Pap Testing May Cease

Women over 70 with three normal results in the previous ten years may stop regular screenings. Additionally, those who have had a hysterectomy should consult their doctor to determine if continued pap testing is necessary.

Can a Pap Smear Detect STI?

Pap tests check for abnormal cells, like those seen in cervical cancer. A pap test doesn’t detect any STIs, like chlamydia or gonorrhea. For those wondering does a pap smear test for STIs, it does not; however, when having a pap test done, it is often a convenient time to discuss a need for STI testing – as another swab can be easily used at the same time. HPV is among the top three most common sexually transmitted infections in Canada (with chlamydia being the most common) and is a common prerequisite for cervical cancer. It is anticipated that HPV testing, a superior test, will replace pap screening.

How Does an HPV Test Work?

An HPV test is often done with a pap test because the tests are similar—they both involve a speculum and a swab, collecting cells, and sending them to the lab for testing.

It’s common for pap or HPV testing to cause mild bleeding due to the scraping of the cervix to extract the cells. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have symptoms such as heavy bleeding,  foul-smelling discharge, fever, chills, or abdominal pain.

Your healthcare provider will likely explain what will happen if the test detects abnormal cells (you’ll likely need another test). They’ll contact you in a few days when your results are available.

Note: There’s an HPV vaccine that can help prevent your risk of cervical cancer by up to 90%. Speak to a primary care provider to discuss your options.

Types of STDs to Be Tested For

Understanding the difference between STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) and STIs (sexually transmitted infections) is essential, as these terms are often used interchangeably. The term STI is now more commonly used than STD, as it’s broader and includes infections that may not show symptoms.

Infection vs. Disease

• Infection: Occurs when a virus, bacteria, or parasite enters the body, initiating an immune response.
• Disease: Develops when an infection progresses to the point of causing bodily harm and symptoms.

Not all STIs turn into diseases, and some may remain asymptomatic, making regular STI testing vital.

Common STIs and STDs to Be Tested For STIs are often treatable and curable with proper medication. Testing options are available for a range of infections, including:

• HIV: Identified via blood tests.
• Syphilis: Tested through blood work or swab samples.
• Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: Typically detected with urine samples or swabs of the affected area.
• Hepatitis B and C: Diagnosed through blood tests.

While a Pap smear does not directly test for STDs like chlamydia or gonorrhea, it can detect HPV (a common STI linked to cervical changes). For comprehensive care, talk to your healthcare provider about adding specific STI tests alongside your Pap smear if needed.

Selecting the Right Tests
Based on your symptoms and sexual history, your healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate tests. Many healthcare providers now offer HPV testing with Pap smears to detect early cervical changes associated with HPV, a key cause of cervical cancer.

Who Should Get Tested for STIs?

If you fall into any of the following categories, you should get an STI test:

• you are sexually active
• you had sex without a condom
• you or someone you had sex with has STI symptoms
• your current or past partner has had an STI
• you have shared needles with someone
  

What to Expect During an STI Test

Your healthcare provider will discuss your sexual history to determine the appropriate type of STD/STI testing you may need. They may ask questions about any symptoms you’re experiencing, your recent sexual partners, the type of sexual activity, and the kind of protection you typically use. This information helps identify the most relevant tests.

Testing Procedures May Include:

• Urine Test: Often used to detect infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.
• Blood Test: Required for testing infections like HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis.
• Swab Sample Collection: A cotton swab may be used to gather samples from the throat, vagina, penis, or anus.
• External Examination: Conducted to look for any visible signs of infection, such as bumps or sores.
• Internal Examination: In some cases, a speculum may be used to look inside the vagina and inspect the cervix, especially if HPV testing or a Pap smear is required. 

Where to Get Comprehensive STI Testing

To get tested for an STI, you can visit your healthcare provider, a sexual health clinic, a local public health unit, or a walk-in clinic. If you’re looking for guidance on where to get tested, speak to a primary care provider — such as a doctor or nurse practitioner — directly on Maple. They can give you insight and recommend the next steps.

Importance of Regular STI Screenings

Regular STI screenings are essential for maintaining health, as many STIs often present no symptoms. Testing is often the only way to detect an infection and start necessary treatment. Without symptoms, infections like HPV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea can go unnoticed, potentially causing serious long-term health issues if left untreated.

Reasons for Regular Testing:

• STIs are Contagious: Most STIs are easily passed through sexual contact via bodily fluids or direct contact with an infected area.
• Prevention & Risk Management: Regular testing helps you understand your risks and prevents transmission to others.
• Early Detection & Treatment: Many STIs are treatable or curable when caught early. For example, HPV testing can prevent cervical cancer, and HIV testing allows for early management to prevent AIDS.
• Protection Against Long-Term Health Issues: Untreated STIs can lead to complications like infertility, organ damage, and nervous system issues.
• Practice Safe Sex: Using condoms or other barrier methods can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. If you’re sexually active, frequent testing and safe practices are key to both personal and partner health.

If left untreated, STIs can cause lifelong health problems. For example, HPV can cause cervical cancer, HIV can lead to AIDS, syphilis can damage your organs and nervous system, and gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to infertility.

Regular screenings, including Pap smears and HPV tests, can detect early signs of infection. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance on how to get tested for STDs based on your sexual history and risk level.

How to Prevent an STI 

Taking proactive steps can greatly reduce the risk of contracting an STI. Here are some effective prevention methods:

• Abstain from Sex: Avoid engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex to eliminate the risk of exposure.
• Use Barrier Methods: Consistently using condoms and other barrier methods helps reduce the chance of infection.
• Limit Sexual Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners can decrease exposure to potential infections.
• Get Regular Testing: Routine STI screenings allow for early detection and treatment, helping to prevent transmission.
• Vaccination: Vaccines, such as for hepatitis B and HPV, offer protection against specific infections.

If you have questions about STIs or symptoms, primary care providers on Maple are available 24/7. You can consult doctors or nurse practitioners through secure text, audio, or video calls. Maple providers can discuss symptoms, give advice on safe sex practices, guide you on how to get tested for STDs, and suggest local testing facilities.

Myths and Facts About Pap Tests and STDs

Pap tests are an essential part of women’s health, particularly for detecting early signs of cervical cancer. However, there are several myths surrounding Pap tests, especially about STDs and STI screening. Here, we debunk some common myths and highlight the facts to help you better understand the role of Pap tests in sexual and reproductive health.

Myth #1: You Only Need a Pap Test if You’re Having Symptoms

• Fact: Many cervical cell changes caused by HPV don’t produce symptoms but can be detected through regular Pap tests. Similarly, some STDs don’t always show symptoms initially but can still be transmitted to partners. Regular Pap tests and STD screenings, regardless of symptoms, are vital for early detection and prevention.

Myth #2: You Don’t Need Regular Pap Tests After the HPV Vaccine

• Fact: While the HPV vaccine significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer, it doesn’t protect against all HPV strains or other STDs. Routine Pap tests are still recommended, as they can catch any cellular changes in the cervix and help monitor overall cervical health.

Myth #3: Pap Tests Are Painful and Harmful

• Fact: Pap tests may feel uncomfortable but are generally painless and safe. Any discomfort is brief, and the benefits of early detection far outweigh the minor discomfort. Regular screenings can save lives by detecting changes before they develop into cancer.

Myth #4: Pap Tests Can Diagnose All Reproductive Health Issues

• Fact: Pap tests are focused on cervical health and do not diagnose conditions like endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or other reproductive health issues. These require different assessments and tests. However, regular visits to your healthcare provider provide opportunities to discuss symptoms and schedule additional screenings as needed.

Conclusion

Routine Pap smears play a vital role in monitoring cervical health and detecting early signs of potential issues. While Pap tests are specifically designed to screen for cervical cancer, they are also an essential part of broader preventive care. Together with regular STD screenings, they provide valuable insights into reproductive health, supporting informed decisions about wellness.

Key Takeaways:

• Pap Tests and Cervical Cancer: Pap smears primarily screen for abnormal cervical cells, offering early detection of potential cancer risks.
• Separate Screening for STDs: While Pap tests can identify certain changes related to HPV, they don’t detect other STDs. Regular STD screenings are necessary for a complete assessment of sexual health.
• Empowerment Through Knowledge: Understanding the purpose of Pap tests and knowing when to get additional STD screenings empowers you to take control of your health.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulty breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.