Can smear tests detect pregnancy?

Question

I recently had a routine smear test done, and I'm also suspecting I might be pregnant. I was wondering if the smear test results can actually show if someone is pregnant. Do they look for pregnancy during that test?

Kavya Murthy · Accepted Answer

No, a smear test (Pap smear) is only meant to check for abnormal cells on your cervix to screen for cervical cancer. It won't show if you are pregnant or not, you'll need a regular urine pregnancy test for that.

Simran Johar · Answer

I used to get so confused about these different gynaecologist tests and always worried they would find something else! But don't worry, a smear test definitely doesn't detect pregnancy, so you don't have to stress about that.

Aman Verma · Answer

Nope, they don't. My girlfriend had a Pap smear recently and we asked the doctor about this. It's completely different; for pregnancy, you just do a normal beta-hCG blood test or a home strip test.

Ramesh Chawla · Answer

Smear tests are expensive and specifically for cancer screening. Don't waste money thinking it will tell you about pregnancy; a simple seventy rupee home pregnancy kit from any local pharmacy is all you need.

Lalitha Iyer · Answer

No, dear, they are two entirely different medical procedures. A smear test checks for cell health in the cervix. For pregnancy, a urine or blood test is the only correct way.

Meera Shah · Answer

It won't detect pregnancy. But please, if you are due for your routine Pap smear, don't delay it like I did once. Regular checkups are life-saving even if they are uncomfortable.

Can smear tests detect pregnancy?

6 answers

Consult a obstetrics and gynaecologist

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