A pap smear is mainly recommended during a pelvic exam to detect signs of cervical cancer. It is crucial to safeguarding women’s health in Lady Lake since cervical cancer is one of the major issues affecting women globally, and the earlier detected, the better. It is vital to have regular pap smear screenings as the best way to beat any chances of cervical cancer. Note that any sexually active woman should have a pap smear. Here are some critical facts you should know about the screening test.
Regular Pap Tests are Necessary
As mentioned earlier, the main goal of a pap smear is to detect early signs of cervical cancer to take action before the condition worsens. But most signs of cervical cancer are vague, and it might not be easier to catch them with a single test. Symptoms like abnormal vaginal discharges and bleeding are common with other health complications and may often be mistaken or underestimated. But if you get regular pap tests, your doctor will be able to differentiate between other common conditions and possible cervical cancer.
Anyone Sexually Active Should Get a Pap Test
Seek a pap smear before or when you first start being sexually active. Even for your sexually active young girls, they should seek preventative gynecology. Understand that the human papillomavirus is responsible for most cervical cancer cases, and the more sexually active you are, the greater the chances are to acquire the virus. Note that condoms will not protect you 100% from the virus, and that is crucial to keep on seeking pap tests so long as you are sexually active.
You Might Still Need a Pap Test When Old
Pap smear can become necessary no matter your age. Even though most women over 65 do not require the screening, you might need it at the age or older if you are still sexually active. Also, you might need the pap smear if you were treated for pre-cancer or cancer at a young age. Additionally, if the hysterectomy were on the menu for you to manage cancer cells or pre-cancer, it would be necessary to continue seeking pap smear screenings. However, you will require the test no more if three or more tests come out negative, you had no abnormal pap test treatment in the past twenty years, or you have not had an abnormal pap test in the past ten years.
When a Pap Smear is Abnormal
When your pap test comes out abnormal, it is not yet time to panic. Your doctor might recommend a repeat test at about 6-12 months to confirm the findings before taking other proceedings. Your doctor can also recommend a colonoscopy to examine your vagina and cervix using a microscope closely. These tests enable your provider to observe any abnormal cells and know the necessary steps to take. In most cases, biopsies are recommended in the presence of abnormal cells as you discuss treatment options.
HPV Vaccination Does Not Substitute a Pap Smear
If you receive an HPV vaccine, it will protect you from some types of cervical cancer. However, it does not mean you halt seeking regular pap smear screening. Remember that the vaccine will not work unless you get all the required doses, and it will not protect you from all types of cervical cancer even if you are fully vaccinated.
It would help if you had regular pap smear screening. Reach out to Integrated Family Medical Center to learn more about the tests, including expectations. Remember, preventative care is better than seeking a cure.
