When that annual appointment at the gynecologist's office comes up, many women don't want to go. Getting a pap smear can be awkward, uncomfortable or even painful. But a new test approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could change that. In May, the FDA approved a self-swab alternative to the pap smear. Doctors say it's just as effective at spotting cervical pre-cancer and cancer. More local videos here: https://youtube.com/@9news Subscribe to NEXT: https://youtube.com/@Nexton9NEWS Stay connected: 9NEWS Website: https://www.9news.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ilike9news Twitter: https://twitter.com/9NEWS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/9newsdenver/ Download the 9NEWS App: https://www.9news.com/appredirect/ Sign up for the 9NEWSLETTER: https://www.9news.com/email 9NEWS (KUSA) is located in Denver, Colorado.