What to Expect During a Pap Smear
A Pap smear is a quick, routine procedure. Here is what happens during your visit:
- You will be asked to lie back on a gynecological exam table
- Your physician will gently insert a speculum to allow access to the cervix
- A small brush or swab is used to collect a sample of cells from your cervix
- The sample is placed in a container and sent to a laboratory for analysis
- The entire collection process typically takes less than five minutes
Most patients experience little to no discomfort. Some mild cramping or light spotting afterward is normal and resolves quickly.
Your physician will explain each step before and during the exam, and you are welcome to ask questions at any time.
Tip: For the most accurate results, avoid scheduling your Pap smear during your menstrual period. It is also helpful to avoid vaginal creams, douching, or intercourse for 48 hours before your appointment.
Understanding Your Pap Smear Results
Most Pap smear results come back normal. If your results show abnormal cells, this does not mean you have cancer. There are several possible reasons for an abnormal result, including:
- Minor cervical cell changes that resolve on their own
- Infection or inflammation
- HPV (human papillomavirus), which is very common and often clears without treatment
- Changes related to menopause or low estrogen levels
If abnormal cells are found, your physician may recommend:
- A repeat Pap smear in 6–12 months to monitor changes
- An HPV test to check for high-risk strains of the virus
- A colposcopy — a closer examination of the cervix using a specialized magnifying instrument, which can be performed at our office
All results and follow-up care are handled confidentially.
Pap Smear vs. HPV Test — What Is the Difference?
A Pap smear looks at the cervical cells themselves to detect changes that could become cancerous. An HPV test checks whether you are infected with high-risk types of human papillomavirus, which is the primary cause of cervical cancer.
For women ages 30–65, ACOG recommends combining both tests (co-testing) for the most comprehensive screening. Your physician will determine whether a Pap smear alone or co-testing is appropriate for you based on your age, history, and prior results.
Pap Smear Service Fees
Self-Pay Pricing:
- Pap smear with office visit: $100–$200 depending on visit type
- Consultation only: $80
- Return visit within 6 months: $120
- Return visit within 18 months: $160
Insurance & Medicaid: We accept most major health insurance plans and Medicaid from all five NYC boroughs(Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island). Preventive screenings like Pap smears are covered at no cost under most insurance plans. We do not accept Westchester County Medicaid.
We are happy to verify your insurance coverage before your appointment. Contact billing@dremily.net or call 718-585-1010.
Why Choose Dr. Emily Women's Health Center for Your Pap Smear
- Board-certified OB/GYN physicians — Dr. Brian E. Park and Dr. Vivian Roston each bring over 30 years of clinical experience
- AAAASF-accredited facility — meeting nationally recognized standards for patient safety and quality of care
- The Bronx's only private women's health clinic — providing personalized, one-on-one care since 2004
- Confidential and respectful — every visit is handled with discretion and dignity
- Comprehensive follow-up — if further evaluation is needed, colposcopy and additional testing are available on-site
- Medicaid and most insurance accepted — from all five NYC boroughs
- Convenient Bronx location — 1 block from the 6 train at East 149th Street
Convenient Bronx Location
