08/19/2026
This is a very common misconception.
A Pap test does not screen for all gynecologic cancers.
It is used to screen for cervical cancer and precancerous changes of the cervix. It does not screen for ovarian, endometrial, v***ar or vaginal cancer. We don’t have screening tests for those cancers.
So even if your Pap is completely up to date, symptoms still matter.
Bleeding after menopause. Unusual or persistent bleeding. A new or changing v***ar lesion. Persistent bloating or other new symptoms — these still deserve attention.
A normal Pap test doesn’t mean everything gynecologic has been checked.
Did you know this?