A Pap smear is also called a Pap test. Cancer of the cervix is one of the leading causes of death in women. Cervix is the opening of the uterus. During the procedure, cells from the cervix are gently scraped away and examined for abnormal growth. The procedure is very simple and is done at the doctor’s clinic. When should the test be done? 1. Every year in a women who is sexually active. 2. From age 30 to 65, every 3 years 3. 65 and older – you may no longer need it, but you have to talk to your doctor. Women who have had a hysterectomy with removal of cervix and no history of cervical cancer do not need screening.