FOR International Women's Day 2022 and National Women's Month, Filipino females do not only celebrate their wins and achievements, but set some time for themselves as they recalibrate and think about what it means to be a strong and healthy woman. It is not only about success in their careers or finances, or about 'staying on the grind' and overworking to prove themselves. It is also just as important that they take care of ourselves and their health, particularly the aspects that are unique to the feminine physique. One way ladies can do this is by taking their pap smear or cervical cancer screening regularly.

The pap smear is a test that checks for abnormal growths in the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus. It is primarily done to check for cervical cancer, but it can also detect inflammation and infection in the cervix. The obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) will use a swab called a cytobrush to collect some cervical cells in order that these can be sent to the lab for testing. Since the process can feel a bit embarrassing, especially since it involves the ladies' private parts, it is important that they feel relaxed and trust toward their OB-GYN. Women need not worry because the process is very quick and will not be painful as the doctor makes them feel relaxed.