The Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is where cervical cells are collected and smeared on a slide for microscopic examination
. It is an effective screen for precancerous or cancerous changes in cervical cells. If these cells are evident, other tests should be conducted such as: HPV DNA test - to detect the presence of the most common high-risk HPV types, colposcopy - a follow-up test that involves putting a vinegar-like solution on the cervix to check for abnormalities, Schiller test - a test where iodine is placed on the cervix, causing normal cells to turn brown and abnormal cells to show up as white or yellow, biopsy - if abnormal areas are found on the cervix, small pieces of tissue should be removed for examination. For additional information on colon cancer tests and other cancer risk assessment, please visit www.youtestyou.com to learn more