What is a Pap Smear?
Getting a Pap smear test may not be the most fun part of your day. Some women dread getting a Pap smear test because it can feel awkward and uncomfortable. Yet, this lifesaving exam is certainly worth the brief discomfort.
The test is named after Greek Doctor Papanikolaou. He proved that most forms of cervical cancer begin with an infection that can be caught and treated early.
Pap test examines cells that are taken from the cervix (the lower, narrow end of your uterus) using a speculum and examined under a microscope. This test also detects precancerous cells, so the proper treatment can start before cancer even has a chance to form.
How do you prepare for a Pap Smear
Here are some tips that will endure that the NYC Pap smear test results are as accurate as possible:
- Avoid scheduling the test during your period, as blood can interfere with the accuracy of the results.
- Avoid certain products: In the 24 to 48 hours leading up to your Pap smear, avoid using tampons, vaginal medications, vaginal creams, lubricants, or douches. These products can interfere with the test results.
- Sexual activity: Refrain from sexual intercourse for at least 24 hours before the Pap smear. Semen, lubricants, or other substances can affect the accuracy of the results.
Why is a Pap Smear performed?
Viva Eve doctors perform NYC Pap smear tests in conjunction with a pelvic exam during routine Well-Woman annual Ob/Gyn exam. In women older than 30, the Pap test may be combined with a test for human papillomavirus (HPV) — a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical cancer. In some cases, the HPV test may be done instead of a Pap smear.
Another important step you can take to prevent cervical cancer is getting vaccinated. It is important to note however, that the HPV vaccine is not a substitute for the Pap test.
What can you expect during a Pap Smear?
When your NYC pap smear results are abnormal, your Viva Eve doctor might recommend some additional testing or procedures.
Viva Eve doctors are renowned for their expertise in diagnosing and treating all the conditions related to abnormal pap smears. We will listen to all your concerns and together we will come up with the treatment plan that works for you and your unique circumstances.
What is the followup and recovery like for a Pap Smear?
Pap smear is a simple procedure that typically does not require any specific recovery time. Most women can resume their normal activities immediately after the test. Any discomfort or spotting after the Pap smear is usually very mild and brief.
The results of NYC pap smear are usually available within a few weeks. If the results are normal, it is typically recommended to have another Pap smear in about three years. If abnormal cells are detected, your Viva Eve healthcare provider will discuss further steps and potential follow-up procedures, such as a colposcopy or additional testing.
What are the potential costs for a Pap Smear?
Papr smear is part of a comprehensive Ob/Gyn exam and the fees will vary based on the type of appointment and whether they are any additional fees for lab work or follow-up appointments.
What are the potential risks for a Pap Smear?
Pap smear is an extremely safe procedure that doesn’t carry any risks. The only risk with Pap tests is that abnormal cells that are present are not detected by the test, also known as a false-negative result. Delaying the discovery of abnormal cells will delay treatment.
Are there related procedures to a Pap Smear?
If your Pap smear is abnormal, your Viva Eve healthcare provider may recommend a procedure called colposcopy that uses a special magnifying instrument (colposcope) to examine the tissues of the cervix, vagina and vulva.
Abnormal Pap Smear Results
When your NYC pap smear results are abnormal, your Viva Eve doctor might recommend some additional testing or procedures.
Viva Eve doctors are renowned for their expertise in diagnosing and treating all the conditions related to abnormal pap smears. We will listen to all your concerns and together we will come up with the treatment plan that works for you and your unique circumstances.
The HPV vaccine is not a substitute for the Pap test.
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The vast majority (93%) of American women report having had at least one Pap smear in their lifetime.
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The Pap test is largely responsible for a 70% decrease in cervical cancer deaths in the United States in the past 50 years.
When should I start getting a Pap smear test?
| < 21 years old, not sexually active, no known risk factors | None needed |
| < 21 years old, sexually active | Every 3 years |
| 21 – 29 years old | Every 3 years |
| 30 – 65 years old | Every 3-5 years if your Pap smear and HPV tests are negative |
| 65 years and older | You may no longer need NYC pap smear tests; talk to your Viva Eve doctor to determine your needs |
| Any age and you had a full hysterectomy | None needed |
Pap smears shouldn’t hurt, it just may feel a little uncomfortable, like a tiny pinch.
Getting a Pap smear during your period can affect the accuracy of your results, so your doctor will most likely ask you to schedule it accordingly.
The NYC pap smear test usually takes less than a minute to insert the speculum and take a cell sample from your cervix.
Here are a few things you should do to make sure that your pap smear results are accurate: -Don’t douche, have sex, or use birth control foams two to three days before your appointment. -As a general rule, try to schedule your test three to five days after the last day of your period. -Don’t use tampons two to three days before your NYC pap smear test. -If you’re on any medication for an infection, wait at least two weeks for the medication to clear your system completely before you have a Pap smear.
