Pap smears can be lifesaving, detecting precancerous cells and early-stage cervical cancer. While medical professionals routinely recommend this screening, many put off undergoing one. It is important, therefore, to note that healthcare providers do everything they can to improve patient comfort throughout the process. The goal is to empower patients to get these crucial routine screenings that could prevent serious health problems down the line.
Pap smears are one of the many components of a pelvic examination. While a pelvic exam can gather information about the overall health of the female reproductive system, the pap smear focuses on detecting signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. We achieve this by collecting cell samples from the cervical wall and testing them in a lab to look for signs of cancer.
The earlier an OB/GYN finds cancerous cells, the higher the chance of beating cervical cancer. In the case of precancerous cells, the patient may be able to stop cancer before it fully develops. According to Cleveland Clinic, 95% of patients who were found to have precancerous cells and received treatment did not go on to develop cervical cancer.
Pap smears can help detect human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) linked to cervical cancer. Testing for HPV requires the same process as a pap smear (i.e., taking a sample of cells from the cervix). As a result, many OB/GYNs perform these screenings simultaneously.
To further reduce one's risk of contracting HPV, patients may get vaccinated against certain strains. Always using protection during sex is also crucial to preventing this STI.
Getting a pap smear may seem intimidating, but it only takes between 10 and 20 minutes. First, the assisting nurse will ask the patient to disrobe and put on a gown. For privacy, the nurse will leave the room during this time. Patients may request a chaperone, such as another healthcare provider or a trusted loved one if they feel more comfortable. Once the provider returns, the patient will be asked to sit with their feet in stirrups. The provider will then insert a speculum, which resembles a duckbill, into the vagina. The duck-billed part opens so that the provider is able to scrape some cells from the cervical wall with a small spatula. Once the cells are collected, the provider will send them to the lab for testing.
The patient can expect additional steps if the pap smear is part of a pelvic exam. The healthcare provider will look at the vulva for any abnormalities, such as abnormal discharge or genital warts. They will also feel for lumps in and around the pelvic area. The final part of a pelvic exam involves the provider placing a gloved finger into the vaginal canal and gently pressing on the lower abdomen to check for issues with the ovaries or fallopian tubes. For instance, pain may indicate infection.
It is possible to get a pap smear while menstruating (period). That said, menstruation can make the screening procedure more uncomfortable, as the cervix may be sore and tender. Further, a lot of blood could lead to inaccurate test results.
Pap smears are quick, lifesaving screenings. If you are due for one, call our team at Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M.. We will set you up with an appointment time that suits your schedule.
Request an appointment here: https://eckhardtobgyn.com or call Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M. at (346) 201-4716 for an appointment in our Tomball office.
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