Girls should have their first gynecological visit before beginning sexual activity. This visit includes an overview of preventive services, counseling in regards to sexually transmitted infections, birth control and menstrual history. This visit does not typically include a Pap test or pelvic exam.
Dreyer’s Obstetrics and Gynecology Department recommends that women should begin screening for cervical cancer six months to one year after the onset of sexual activity, or by the age of 18, prior to leaving for college. For ages 18 through 29, screening should be performed every year. If all results are normal during this time, Pap testing may be changed to intervals of two to three years at age 30. For ages 65 and older, it is acceptable to stop Pap screening if there are no known risk factors.
However, with certain risk factors present, testing may be needed annually, regardless of age. Some examples of such risk factors include a history of sexual activity as a teenager, having multiple sex partners, having a partner who began sexual activity at an early age or had multiple previous partners, a history of sexually transmitted disease, a family history of cervical cancer, a diagnosis of cervical cancer, previous abnormal Pap tests, infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), tobacco use, exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth, HIV infection, and a weakened immune system.
A pelvic exam can screen for reproductive problems or other abnormalities, but a Pap test is the only method to detect cervical cancer or precancerous cells. With early detection, nearly 100% of cervical cancer cases are treatable. In a Pap test, cell samples are taken from the cervix and sent to a laboratory to be analyzed. The results of the Pap test are then sent to your provider for follow-up.
The ThinPrep® Pap test has been used exclusively at Dreyer for many years because it has proven to be significantly more effective than the conventional Pap smear. In the conventional Pap smear, up to 80% of the cells are thrown away with the collection device. If any precancerous cells are present, they might be discarded. With ThinPrep®, a simple but important change was made to this process. Rather than smearing the cervical sample onto a slide, the provider rinses the collection device into a vial of preservative solution. This method captures virtually the entire sample and preserves the cells for the laboratory.
To ensure accurate results, follow these guidelines when preparing for a Pap test:
- Avoid intercourse for two days prior to your appointment.
- Do not douche or use any vaginal medicines, creams, or lubricants for two days prior to your appointment.
- Try not to schedule your appointment during your menstrual cycle. Although a test can still be performed, the results may be harder to read and the test may need to be repeated. We will be happy to reschedule your appointment for you.
If the results of the test are normal, no further action is needed on your part, just mark your calendar for your next test. If the results are abnormal, there are a number of possible outcomes. Usually abnormal results alone are not the basis of a diagnosis, but rather a signal to your provider that further evaluation is needed. This can be done through a number of other tests, including:
- HPV testing
- Colposcopy
- Cervical biopsy
- Endometrial sampling
- Diagnostic excision
Upon further evaluation, your provider will be able to make a diagnosis, and discuss treatment options with you if necessary. By keeping current with your exams and Pap tests, you are ensuring your cervical health and taking a pro-active approach to preventing cervical cancer.
|
HEALTH RESOURCES
