Pap smears do not usually detect ovarian cancer so please be aware that its important to watch for signs of ovarian cancer. Your pap smear will not pick it up. I am very passionate on this subject as my mum died of ovarian cancer and I have done a lot of research into the subject. Mum had regular pap smears and still didn't find the ovarian cancer until it was very well established.


ETA just found this: Although the Pap doesn't detect ovarian cancer, it may detect cancer cells that have migrated to the uterine cervix from the ovaries or abnormal cells in the uterine cervix.
good point to bring up MrsMac so many here don't feel this is the answer to all finding on it's own in the tests, as my SIL at 27 had her routine mamogram (due to family BC history) and was given the all the clear only herself to find a lump a couple of months later and had advanced breast cancer and she passed away at 28 (last year).

(so sorry MrsMac to hear about her Mum )

... I look at any tests i have done whether it be papsmear, skinspot check or mamograms (& U/S) as an added bonus as to what i already do to keep a watchful eye on things regarding my health !