Understand your pap smear.
The Pap smear, also known as the Pap test or cervical smear, is a gynecological screening test used to detect abnormalities in the cells of the cervix. Cells are taken from the cervix and examined for cervical cancer or conditions that may develop into cancer.
Who Should get a Pap Smear?
Medical professionals recommend routine screening beginning at age 21 for sexually active women. Early detection of cancerous and precancerous cells is fundamental in the fight against cervical cancer. Typically if a woman has a normal Pap smear it is recommended that follow-up screenings be carried out every three years. It is not necessary for women over 65 who have had three previous normal Pap smears to continue screening.
The Procedure
A Pap smear is performed by a doctor or other specifically trained health care professional. Usually you will be asked to remove all of your lower garments before being provided with a gown. Once positioned on the examining table you will be directed to position your heels into stirrups, with knees bent and the top of your thighs aligned with the edge of the table. Most medical professionals will do their best to make you as comfortable as possible.
The healthcare provider inserts a plastic or metal instrument called a speculum into the vagina to allow access to the cervix. Because many women complain of the speculum being uncomfortably cold during insertion, some considerate providers take the time to slightly warm the instrument first.
A swab is then inserted into the cavity of the speculum to remove cells from the area of the cervix that connects with the uterus. The cell sample is sent away for examination under a microscope.
After removing the speculum the health care provider may perform an additional pelvic examination by placing two fingers inside the vagina and the other hand on your abdomen. Here the examiner is checking for abnormalities of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes or vagina.
Though the examination is generally not painful, some women experience a little discomfort, cramping or pressure during the process.
What to Expect Next
It usually takes about three weeks to receive Pap smear results, but this can vary greatly depending on the health care provider. The majority of test results are normal, however if your results are abnormal it does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. Many conditions can cause an abnormal Pap smear. In the event of an abnormal result, your doctor will contact you to arrange additional tests.
Though waiting for results can be a worrying time for women, many find comfort in the fact that they have taken a proactive step in managing their health by getting a Pap smear.
Tags: health care, care provider, cervical cancer, health care provider
