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[1, 2, 3]
Pap Smears
Chapter 3
It is very important to get Pap smears done on a regular basis.
This way most atypical cells are detected in a pre-cancerous stage,
when they can be easily removed and do not pose a high level of
risk. Even if the cells are cancerous, cervical cancer diagnosed
early is often curable and still not especially risky. If you go
for your regular examinations, there is no reason for you to ever
develop late stage cervical cancer, and for this reason, not many
woman die from it in North America. It is important to note that
5-20% of Pap tests that come back with normal results possess atypical
cells. On average, it takes about three years for an atypical cell
to turn cancerous, which is why it is so important to be examined
frequently.
It is recommended that women 18 and over and sexually active women
under the age of 18 have Pap tests performed annually. After two
consecutive years of normal Pap tests, your doctor may only require
you to be examined every three years, depending on your age and
risk level for cervical cancer. Women who have higher risk levels
and require more frequent examinations include women with a family
history of cervical cancer, women with multiple sex partners, women
taking birth control pills, women taking estrogen supplements, women
who smoke, women who were sexually active at an early age, women
with a history of genital herpes or genital warts, or women with
a history of infertility.
To be well prepared for your appointment, the following are a few
useful suggestions:
· Do not make an appointment for your Pap test during your
period, it is difficult for the doctor to get a culture, mid-cycle
is the best time to go for your examination.
· You may experience a little bit of spotting afterward,
so it is a good idea to bring a panty liner in your purse to the
doctor's office.
· It is also usually requested that you do not douche or
use vaginal cream for a few days before your appointment, as it
may alter the results of your examination.
· As well, it's important to tell the doctor about any other
pertinent information, such as medications that your are currently
taking, and any spotting between periods, or unusual discharge.
Going for your annual pelvic examination and Pap smear is a very
important part of taking care of your overall health; it's the only
way to screen for cervical cancer. It need not be embarrassing,
and it certainly is not painful, so don't be afraid to go!
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