What is the difference between a Pap Smear and a Pelvic Exam?

A pap smear screens for abnormal cells on the cervix that could progress to cervical cancer. Depending on a woman’s history and age, she may not need one every year. A pelvic exam or bimanual exam is an exam performed by a PCP or OB/GYN to feel for abnormalities of the uterus, tubes, ovaries and cervix and all women should have on every year!