The main purpose of a Pap-test is to exclude or confirm the existence of neoplastic cells (malignant and premalignant-dysplastic) of a smear sample taken from the cervix. That’s why a Pap-smear is the most important screening method for preventing cervical cancer. Pap-tests can also identify some types of vaginal and cervical infections (categorized as benign cell changes) with more or less certainty... but that is not its main task. It is possible to use a Pap-test, for example, to identify Trichomonas or Candida –infections with a greater certainty than gonorrhea and other bacterial infections. Other types of infections can be identifued only by cells changes caused by viral infections. For precise detection of any vaginal infection, you'll need a vaginal smear for microbiological examination.
Swollen lymph nodes in the inguinal region are usually a sign of genital or anal infection. You should visit your gynecologist immediately. If an infection is present, your partner should also be also examined for diagnosis and treatment.



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