A Pap smear or Pap test is a routine procedure used to screen women for cervical cancer. The whole examination is quite simple, as it only requires a swab of cells from the woman?s cervix for testing.
The four female OBGYNs at Associated Women’s Healthcare are all board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and are all members of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. They have extensive experience performing safe and accurate pap smears. They will walk you through each step of the test and help you feel at ease. Contact Associated Women’s Healthcare today to schedule an appointment in Plano, TX by calling 972.612.8829.
Does Every Woman Need a Pap Smear?
It is advised for women to begin receiving regular Pap smears starting at 21 years of age. These tests usually occur every 3 years, but some individuals will likely be asked to perform Pap smears more often based on certain risk factors such as:
- A prior diagnosis of cervical cancer or a related precancerous condition of the cervix
- Confirmed cases of an HIV infection
- Those with a weakened immune system, usually due to chemotherapy, frequent use of corticosteroids, or an organ transplant
- A history of smoking
Some women also prefer to complete Pap smears more often than every 3 years for reassurance regarding their health, though this is not necessary. It will be your responsibility to communicate to your gynecologist about what is best for you moving forward with Pap smear testing.
There are a few situations in which regular Pap smears will no longer be recommended for certain women. These cases include women who have undergone a hysterectomy that was performed for a noncancerous condition, as well as women who are over the age of 65.
Women within this older age range are usually exempt from Pap smears if they have received them regularly throughout their lifetime and have never had one of these tests come back with positive results for cancer. However, you should absolutely discuss other potential risk factors with your gynecologist before suddenly stopping your recommended Pap smears.
How do Pap Smears Work?
There really is not much that goes into preparing for a Pap smear, though it is advised to avoid scheduling your test during your menstrual cycle, in addition to avoiding having intercourse or using any substances that may enter the vagina (jellies, douches, etc.). All of these activities are best to refrain from because they may alter the cells of the cervix, which could lead to incorrect Pap smear results.
The entire procedure will take place in your OBGYN’s office. It will begin by laying down on your back with your feet rested in stirrups. Once in position, your gynecologist will use a speculum to open the vaginal walls and insert a spatula to gather cells from the cervix.
After a sample has been collected, these cells are taken to a lab to be reviewed for signs of cancerous activity.
Schedule an Appointment in Plano, TX
Contact women-led Associated Women’s Healthcare to schedule an appointment and address all of your questions and concerns surrounding pap smears. Patients may call our office in Plano, TX, at (972) 612-8829 to schedule an appointment with one of our four female gynecologists!