Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Doctors typically swab a patient’s cervix in clinical settings to test for high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus, an infection that can cause cancer when left untreated, through Pap smears and HPV testing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 5, 2026

This is after a big decline in cervical cancer rates over the past half-century due to early detection from Pap smears and HPV screening tests.

From Science Daily • Apr. 11, 2024

People in their 20s with cervices need Pap smears every three years, although the interval may be shorter if you’ve had abnormal results in the past.

From Washington Post • Oct. 16, 2022

Last year, the South Texas clinics saw nearly 25,000 patients, most seeking non-abortion services such as Pap smears or birth control.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 22, 2021

Beyond Pap smears and height, weight, and blood pressure measurements, no part of the physical exam has been clearly shown to increase disease detection, improve health, or decrease mortality.

From Salon • Oct. 15, 2021