PAP, or Papanicolaou test, is a medical procedure used to screen for cervical cancer in women. It involves collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope to detect any abnormalities. Regular PAP tests can help identify precancerous changes, allowing for early intervention and treatment. The test is typically recommended for women starting at age 21, regardless of sexual history. It is usually performed during a routine pelvic exam and can be done alongside other tests, such as HPV testing, which checks for the presence of the human papillomavirus, a major cause of cervical cancer.