The Pap test is still the most effective screening test available for finding abnormal cells that may lead to cervical cancer.

A single Pap test cannot be considered 100% reliable for a number of reasons, including:

1. Abnormal cells may have been washed away by douching, lubricants or sexual activity before the test.

2. Cells may have been missed at the time the test was taken.

3. Abnormal cells on the slide were not seen at the lab.

4. Normal cells were viewed as abnormal.

Most cervical cancers grow slowly. By having a Pap test every two years, the chance of missing abnormal cells will be reduced and the opportunity for finding and successfully treating abnormal cells is good.