Everything You Need To Know About Your Pap Test
Most women aren’t exactly fond of Pap tests. They may find them uncomfortable, scary or even unnecessary, but the truth is this test can save your life. And despite the success it has in detecting cervical changes, about 1 out of 10 American women skip this vital screening. So when it’s time for you to have your next Pap test, don’t dismiss its importance.
Why
have a Pap test?
Early on, cervical
changes don't cause symptoms. Often, the only way to know you have
cervical changes is to do a Pap test. A Pap test can find these problems early,
when they are easier to treat. Pap tests can also detect changes of the cervix
and vagina, including:
- Inflammation
- Infection
- Abnormal cells
- Precancerous cells
- Cancer
What
is a Pap test?
During a Pap test, your doctor uses a cotton swab or
wooden stick to collect a small sample of cells from your cervix and vagina.
Those cells are then sent to a lab, where they are viewed under a microscope to
detect any abnormalities.
When
should you have a Pap test?
It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider
about when and how often you should have a Pap test as it may vary based on
your age and risk
factors for cervical cancer.
Currently, it is recommended that women ages 21 to 65
have regular Pap tests. And the latest
research shows that the test isn’t needed every year, instead you
should have it once every 3 years.
However, women at a high risk for cervical cancer may
need one more often. If you are older than age 30, your doctor may also request
a human
papillomavirus (HPV) test at the same time as HPV causes most cases of
cervical cancer.
Prepping
for Your Pap test
Generally, you do not need to do anything to prepare
for this test. But there are certain things that may interfere with Pap test
results, these include:
- Menstruation
- Use of things, such as vaginal creams, jellies, medicines, or spermicidal foams, for 2 to 3 days before the Pap test, as these substances may alter the pH of the cells or hide abnormal cells
- Douching for 2 to 3 days before a Pap test as douching can wash away surface cells
- Sex within 24 hours before the test may cause inflammation of the tissue
- Infections
- Certain medicines, such as tetracycline
The
perfect place for your Pap test
Finding the right doctor for your Pap test is
important. But it shouldn’t stop there. With the experts at Gwinnett Physicians Group
OB/GYN, you will better understand all aspects of your gynecologic
health.
Whether you need help with family planning,
preventative care or just a routine check-up, the dedicated team at Gwinnett Physicians Group
OB/GYN will ensure that you receive the most complete and thorough care
possible in every stage of life.
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