Can you still get a pap smear on your period​? Your most-searched questions, answered

A Pap smear is an essential screening tool for cervical health, but scheduling it can sometimes be tricky – especially if your period decides to arrive!

This has happened to me once before – my period always seems to pop up when I’d rather it didn’t – and apparently I’m not alone in taking to Google. A quick look at page one’s results tells me that many of us wonder whether it’s okay to go get our smear test during menstruation, or if it’s better to reschedule and (maybe) spend the day curled up in bed.

So today, we’re tackling some of those most-searched questions about Pap smears, periods and bleeding, providing clear answers and practical advice to help you make informed decisions, including: 

• Can you still get a Pap smear on your period​?
• Does your period affect Pap smear results?
• Can a Pap smear trigger a period?
• Can a Pap smear make your period late?
• And more

Let’s dive into these frequently asked questions so you can feel confident about your next screening – no matter where you are in your cycle.

Can you still get a Pap smear on your period?

Yes, you can still get a Pap smear if you’re on your period. “In most cases, this it totally fine”, says Team TRB OBGYN fave, Staci Tanouye, MD FACOG.

“Periods aren’t gross or dirty, they’re totally normal, and we would love for you to feel the same way!”

However, if you have a heavy flow, it might make it harder for your provider to collect a clear sample of cervical cells for the pathologist to read. This could lead to less accurate results or the need to repeat the procedure.

If your period starts just before your appointment, it’s a good idea to call your doctor’s office, just in case. Many providers will advise you to keep your appointment unless your flow is particularly heavy, or if you’re experiencing extreme pain.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) say that women over age 21 need regular Pap testing every 3 years, and delaying your Pap smear could mean a longer wait to get rescheduled, so it’s definitely worth discussing your options rather than just canceling right off the bat.

Related article: Is it ‘normal’ period pain or endometriosis? Here’s how to know

Having a Pap smear on first day of period

Getting a pap smear on first day of period is usually completely fine – especially if you tend to have a lighter bleed on day one, like me!

Light bleeding is unlikely to interfere with the test, and many healthcare providers are experienced in performing Pap smears during menstruation.

If your period begins on the day of your appointment, do call your doctor’s office for guidance. They may still encourage you to come in or suggest rescheduling depending on the situation.

In either case, prioritize your comfort and be open with your provider about any concerns you have.

Does your period affect Pap smear results?

Menstrual blood can sometimes affect Pap smear results, but the impact largely depends on the amount of bleeding. 

Light spotting usually won’t interfere with the test, but heavier bleeding can make it harder to collect a clean sample of cervical cells. In such cases, your provider might suggest waiting until your period is over to ensure the most accurate results.

If you’ve had a Pap smear during your period and the results come back inconclusive, your doctor may recommend a repeat test. 

I had an inconclusive result on my first Pap smear and wasn’t sure what to make of it, but rest assured, this doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong – it’s just a precaution to ensure nothing is missed.

Is it normal to bleed after Pap? 

Yes, it’s completely normal to experience light bleeding or spotting after a Pap smear. This happens because the procedure involves collecting cervical cells using a small brush or tiny spatula, which can slightly irritate the delicate tissues of your cervix. 

The spotting is typically minor and resolves within a day or two.

However, heavy bleeding after a Pap smear is not normal. It’s important to contact your healthcare provider after a Pap smear if you’re not on your period, and you notice: 

• excessive bleeding
• clots
• bleeding that lasts longer than a couple of days

These symptoms could indicate an underlying issue, like cervical inflammation or a more sensitive response to the procedure.

Can a Pap smear trigger a period?

No, a Pap smear shouldn’t trigger a period. However, it’s not uncommon to experience light spotting afterward, especially if your cervix is sensitive. This is different from starting your period, and should usually resolve within a day.

As mentioned above, contact your doctor if you notice heavy bleeding after a Pap smear, It’s always better to err on the side of caution and check in with your provider if something doesn’t feel right.

Can a Pap smear make your period late?

No, a Pap smear shouldn’t make your period late. 

The procedure involves gently scraping a sample of cells from your cervix, which doesn’t interfere with your hormonal cycle or menstrual timing. 

If you experience spotting or minor cramping after a Pap smear, it’s unrelated to your period’s schedule.

If your period is late after a Pap smear, you might be able to attribute the delay to other potential causes, like stress, or changes in your routine. If you feel worried about the delay, or experience other symptoms, reach out to your doctor for advice.

What if you have a heavy period after Pap smear?

Having a heavy period immediately after a Pap smear isn’t typical. 

While light spotting is a common side effect, if your next period after your Pap smear features heavy bleeding or more bleeding than usual, it’s probably caused by something else.

Things like cervical sensitivity, a pre-existing condition, or an unrelated hormonal fluctuation might contribute to heavier bleeding. Your healthcare provider can evaluate the situation and let you know that everything is okay.

The bottom line 

In a nutshell – getting a Pap smear while on your period is usually perfectly possible, especially if your flow is light. If your period starts unexpectedly before your appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor for advice. This quick call could save you the trouble of rescheduling or ensure you get the screening you need without delay.

Remember, while a Pap smear might cause temporary spotting, it shouldn’t trigger your period, make it heavier, or cause it to be late. If you notice anything unusual after your test, check in with your provider for peace of mind. 

The bottom line? Prioritizing regular screenings is one of the best things you can do for your long-term health – period or not!

Next on your reading list: From leg spasms to speculum giggles – 3 smear test stories that’ll help you feel less embarrassed at your next appointment