Final answer:
A Pap smear is a routine diagnostic test performed during a pelvic examination to screen for cervical cancer and detect abnormal cell growth or infections in the cervix. It is recommended for sexually active individuals starting at age 21 and should be repeated regularly.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pap smear is a routine diagnostic test performed during a pelvic examination to screen for cervical cancer and detect any abnormal cell growth or microbial infections in the uterine cervix. It involves the collection of a small sample of cells from the cervix, which is examined by a cytotechnologist in a medical lab. Pap smears are recommended for sexually active individuals starting at age 21 and should be repeated every three years until age 50, and then every five years until age 65, if previous results are normal. The procedure can be uncomfortable, but steps can be taken to minimize pain.