The Vital Role of Pap Smears for Women’s Health
Cervical cancer is a frightening concept for adult women, and being able to detect any signs early on is better than nothing. In 2022, there were 660,000 new cervical cancer cases around the world. While this form of cancer is more common, there are treatments available that work best if you catch the cancer early on. Pap smears are important to understanding your body and finding anything abnormal in the cervix, making this procedure critical towards your future health.
What is a pap smear?
A pap smear, or pap test, is a procedure where cells are collected from your cervix and examined for any signs that suggest cervical cancer. During the test, a small brush is used to collect the cells in the cervix and the surrounding area. The cells are sent to a lab where they will be examined under a microscope for any abnormalities.
Why is it done?
While testing for cervical cancer is the number one reason for a pap smear, this procedure works in conjunction with a standard pelvic exam. Many times, doctors combine a cervical cancer screening with HPV testing, a common sexually-transmitted disease that can also cause cervical cancer. A pap smear helps detect any cell abnormality, helping catch cancer early on and giving better chances at beating the cancer.
How many times should you get a pap smear?
Doctors recommend that women between the ages of 21-65 should get a pap smear every three years. This interval is consistent enough to keep an eye on things as your body changes over time. The typical age to get the first pap smear is 21 years old. If you have specific risk factors, testing more frequently might be recommended by your doctor to ensure safe health.
How to prepare and what to expect
In order to help the accuracy of the pap smear, make sure to avoid intercourse and do not use any type of vaginal medicine, lubricant, and foreign products two days before the test. In addition, schedule your appointment around your menstrual cycle to make the test go smoother.
During the test, your doctor will gently use a medical instrument called a speculum which opens the vaginal walls and makes access to the cervix easier. With a small brush, your doctor will collect cells around the cervix and surrounding areas. While this typically does not hurt, you might feel some pressure.
After the pap smear, there are no restrictions or things to avoid. Within a few days, your results should come in and you will be notified by your doctor.
Make an appointment at Cheyenne OBGYN for your next pap smear
At Cheyenne OBGYN, we believe that the patient comes first. We prioritize your current and future health, call or text 307-634-5216 today to make an appointment for your next pap smear here. While this process seems scary, we value your comfortability and want you to feel heard.