Introduction:

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in women worldwide, with the highest incidence and mortality rates in low- and middle-income countries. This reflects inequalities due to lack of access to human papillomavirus vaccination services and lack of awareness about Pap smear testing.

Objective:

To identify the factors that influence the decision to undergo a Pap smear in women at the San Juan de Dios Health Center from October to December 2023.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive, cross-sectional, and quantitative study was conducted at the San Juan de Dios Health Center in the Municipality of Sacaba from October to December 2023, with a total sample of 61 woman.

Results:

85.2% stated that they had undergone a Pap smear during their last period, It was determined that 68.9% of the total sample were aware of the purpose of the test. The factors that most influence women's decision to undergo the test are preference for female medical personnel (67.2%) and fear or anxiety related to the procedure (39.3%).

Conclusion:

It was evident that fear, anxiety, the gender of the healthcare personnel, lack of information, and the waiting time for PAP results are barriere that influence women's decision to undergo this test.