Can pregnant women do pap smears?

Expert answer:

Yes, the pregnant woman can have a Pap test, which is an important test to identify changes in the part of the uterus that is inside the vagina (cervix) and which can be caused by infections such as candidiasis, trichomoniasis, HPV (human papilloma virus) or even cancer.

In pregnancy, the Pap smear can be ordered if the last test performed was more than three years ago or if the doctor considers it necessary.

During the Pap smear the doctor gently scrapes the cervix and the uterus in order to remove some cells for analysis in the laboratory. This procedure can cause mild colic and a small bleeding, which are considered normal and should not be cause for panic. However, if bleeding is greater or if there is any doubt about any discomfort after the examination or during pregnancy, an obstetric medical service should be sought.

The obstetrician is the doctor indicated to guide the examinations during the pregnancy.