Pap Smear
- A few minutes that protect your future.
A Pap smear is one of the simplest ways to protect your health, and one of the most important. It finds changes in the cervix early, often years before they could become cancer, when they are easiest to treat.
At Women’s Health Group in Chicago, Dr. Awad and our care team make your screening quick, private, and comfortable. We explain each step, answer your questions, and follow up with clear results so you always know where you stand.
- 30+ years caring for women
- Pap and HPV testing in one visit
- Board-certified OB-GYN care
- Clear results and follow-up
Our Services
What is a Pap Smear?
Medically reviewed by Michael M. Awad, DO, OB-GYN
A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is a screening test for cervical cancer. During a pelvic exam, we gently collect a small sample of cells from your cervix with a soft brush. A lab then checks the cells for changes that could, over time, turn into cancer.
The Pap test is often paired with an HPV test, which looks for the high-risk types of human papillomavirus that cause most cervical cancers. Testing for both gives the clearest picture of your cervical health.
Most cervical cancer is preventable.
Regular screening finds abnormal cells early, before they become cancer. That’s why routine Pap and HPV testing matter even when you feel completely healthy.
Cervical Health Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
A Pap smear is a screening test for women without symptoms. If you notice any of these, don’t wait for your next scheduled screening. Call us if you have:
- Bleeding after sex
- Bleeding between periods, or periods that are much heavier or longer than usual
- Any vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Unusual vaginal discharge that is watery, bloody, or has a strong odor
- Pelvic pain that is new or doesn’t go away
- Pain during sex
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and reach out at (773) 992-1555. For emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Comfort at Every Step
Strategies for Comprehensive Care
Screening on the Right Schedule
We follow national screening guidelines and your personal history to decide how often you need a Pap, an HPV test, or both, so you're never over- or under-tested.
A Gentler Exam
We use a speculum sized for your comfort, explain each step as we go, and pause whenever you need. The sample itself takes only a minute or two.
Clear, Timely Results
We share your results, explain what they mean in plain language, and tell you exactly what happens next, so you are never left wondering.
Follow-Up When You Need It
If your results show cell changes, we guide you through the next step, whether that's a repeat test, HPV testing, or a closer look with a colposcopy.
More Than a Pap: Your Well Woman Visit
Your Pap smear is usually done during your annual well woman exam, along with a pelvic exam and time to talk about birth control, your periods, STD testing, or anything else on your mind.
Even in years when you don’t need a Pap, an annual visit still matters for your overall health. It’s also a good time to ask about the HPV vaccine. Learn more on our well woman exams page.
- Screening That Fits You
The Personal Nature of Cervical Screening
Your Age and History Matter
How often you need screening depends on your age, past results, and health history. Women with past abnormal results or a weakened immune system may need testing more often.
Every Woman's Comfort Level Is Different
Some women barely notice a Pap smear, while others feel anxious about pelvic exams. Tell us what you need, and we'll adjust our approach for you.
Your Pap Smear Journey:
Before
Try to schedule when you are not on your period. For two days before, skip douching, vaginal creams, and sex if you can, so your sample gives the clearest results.
Screening
During a pelvic exam, we gently collect cells from your cervix with a soft brush. It takes a minute or two, and you may feel brief pressure or mild cramping.
Results
Once your results are in, we'll reach out to share them and explain what they mean and any next steps in plain language.
Most Pap results come back normal. An abnormal result rarely means cancer. It usually means some cells look different and need a closer look. Here’s what results may mean.*
Normal (negative)
No abnormal cells were found. You can continue routine screening on your recommended schedule.
Mild changes (ASC-US or LSIL)
Mild cell changes, often caused by HPV, that frequently clear on their own. We may recommend HPV testing or a repeat test.
Higher-grade changes (HSIL or ASC-H)
Changes that need prompt follow-up, usually a colposcopy to look closely at the cervix and take a small sample if needed.
Positive HPV test
HPV is very common, and most infections clear on their own. Depending on the type and your Pap result, we’ll recommend next steps.
*Every result is different. Dr. Awad will review yours with you and recommend what is right for you.
Common Pap Smear Questions We Hear Most
Does a Pap smear hurt?
Most women feel brief pressure or mild discomfort, not pain. The sample takes about a minute. If you’re nervous, tell us, and we’ll go slowly and talk you through it.
How often do I need a Pap smear?
For most women ages 21 to 29, a Pap every three years. From 30 to 65, a Pap every three years or HPV testing every five years. Your history may change this.*
*Screening needs vary from woman to woman. Talk with Dr. Awad about the schedule that is right for you.
Can I have a Pap smear on my period?
It’s best to schedule when you’re not bleeding, since blood can affect the sample. If your period starts, call us and we’ll help you decide whether to reschedule.
Do I need a Pap after the HPV vaccine or a hysterectomy?
Usually yes after the HPV vaccine, since it doesn’t cover every type. After a hysterectomy, you may or may not need Paps, depending on why it was done.*
*Screening needs vary from woman to woman. Talk with Dr. Awad about the schedule that is right for you.
Michael M. Awad, DO, OB-GYN
Dr. Mike Awad is a second-generation OB-GYN who brings a gentle, thorough approach to every exam. He explains each step before it happens, answers every question, and makes your comfort a priority. His philosophy is simple: meet every patient where she is, listen carefully, and make sure she feels understood and confident in her care.
Your comfort, privacy, and dignity come first
A pelvic exam is personal, and it’s natural to feel nervous. You deserve care that is gentle, patient, and respectful. Here is our promise to you.
Your comfort is our priority
We never rush your exam, and you can ask us to pause or stop at any time.
We explain first, then proceed together
Before every step, we walk you through what to expect and why, in plain language and at your pace. You can ask us to pause at any time.
Your choice is respected
Whether you want screening today or need more time to decide, the decision is always yours.
Your information stays private
Your conversations and records are protected, and follow-up messages go through our secure patient portal.
Peace of Mind Starts With a Simple Screening
Pap smears and cervical cancer screening for women across Chicago’s Southwest Side, including Garfield Ridge, Clearing, Burbank, Oak Lawn, Bridgeview, and Summit. New patients are welcome. Most major insurance accepted.
