New Delhi, June 14 -- Regular pap smear screening is one of the most effective ways to detect cervical cancer early, when abnormal cervical cells are easiest to manage and treat. However, this test is underused. Many are unaware of the test, and others hold myths about it that keep them from getting it done.

9 common myths about pap smears

Dr Pallavi Vasal, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, busts nine common myths about pap smears:

Myth: If there are no symptoms like vaginal infection or intermenstrual bleeding, you don't need to get the Pap test done.

Fact: So it's not like that, cervical precancer and early cervical cancer often cause no symptoms. Regular screening detects abnormal cells and precancerou...