Since the 1950s, cervical cancer rates have dropped by more than 50%, thanks in large part to early detection through regular Pap smears.
If you’re new to the world of gynecology, either because you’re young or you’ve just never gotten around to making an appointment, you might not know what a Pap smear is or why getting one is important. We’ve put together a simple overview of the Pap smear: what it is, what’s involved, when you need one, and why!
Here’s everything you need to know:
What Is a Pap Smear and How Does It Work?
A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is a procedure to test for cervical dysplasia (precancerous cells on the cervix) and cervical cancer. When you make a well woman appointment with your gynecologist, she will likely perform a Pap smear if you are due for one. Essentially, a Pap smear involves collecting cells from your cervix (which is the lower, narrow end of your uterus that’s at the top of your vagina).
It’s a very quick and relatively painless procedure where your doctor will gently insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina. The speculum holds the walls of your vagina apart so that your doctor can easily see your cervix. Inserting the speculum may cause a sensation of pressure in your pelvic area.
Then your doctor will take samples of your cervical cells using a soft brush and a flat scraping device called a spatula. This usually doesn’t hurt, although some women find it to be uncomfortable. However, the procedure is over in just minutes and then they will remove the speculum and the exam is complete.
What Happens During a Pap Smear?
A Pap smear’s main job is to check for signs of precancerous or cancerous cells which could mean the onset of cervical cancer. This is why it’s recommended that women receive a Pap smear routinely (depending on a woman’s age and situation, that could be annually or every 3 years or so – your doctor will recommend what’s best for you.)
In addition, a Pap test can be combined with a test for human papillomavirus (HPV) — the common sexually transmitted infection that causes cervical cancer.
The idea is, the earlier a doctor can catch a precancerous change, the easier it will be to manage and hopefully stop from progressing into a dangerous cancer.
When to Start Pap Smears: Age and Risk Factors
Knowing when to start getting Pap smears is essential for maintaining good reproductive health. The timing for your first Pap smear depends on your age, health history, and personal risk factors. Here’s a breakdown of the general guidelines, along with special considerations for women who may need more frequent screenings.
General Guidelines for Starting Pap Smears
- At Age 21: According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), all women should begin Pap smear screenings at age 21, regardless of sexual activity. This is because cervical cancer typically develops over time, and a Pap smear is a vital tool for detecting precancerous cells early.
- Ages 21-29: After your first Pap smear at 21, it’s recommended that you have a Pap test every three years. During this time, the focus is on screening for cervical dysplasia, which can be an early indicator of cervical cancer.
- Ages 30-65: Starting at age 30, women can choose to have a Pap smear every three years, or they may opt for a Pap smear combined with an HPV test every five years. HPV (human papillomavirus) is a common sexually transmitted infection linked to cervical cancer, so this dual screening offers more comprehensive protection.
- After Age 65: If you’ve had regular screenings with normal results over the past ten years, and you’re not at high risk for cervical cancer, you may be able to stop Pap smears after age 65. However, this decision should always be discussed with your gynecologist.
When to Have More Frequent Pap Smears
Some women may need to begin Pap smears earlier or have them more frequently based on certain risk factors. These may include:
- A History of Abnormal Pap Smears: If you’ve previously had an abnormal Pap smear result, your doctor will likely recommend more frequent screenings to monitor for potential changes in your cervical health.
- Exposure to Diethylstilbestrol (DES): Women whose mothers took DES, a medication prescribed between the 1940s and 1970s, may need to begin Pap smears at an earlier age and have them more regularly due to an increased risk of cervical abnormalities.
- HIV Infection: If you’re HIV-positive, your immune system may be weakened, which increases your risk for cervical dysplasia. Women with HIV should begin Pap smears within one year of becoming sexually active or by age 21, whichever comes first, and continue with more frequent screenings.
- Weakened Immune System: If you’ve had an organ transplant, undergone chemotherapy, or use immunosuppressive medications, your immune system may not be able to fight off infections like HPV, increasing your risk for cervical cancer. Your doctor may recommend more frequent Pap smears in these cases.
It’s important to have an open conversation with your gynecologist about your health history and any specific risk factors that might impact when you start Pap smears and how often you should have them.
Pap smears are nothing to be afraid of – they are a vital part of keeping up with your health, just like going to the dentist.
Think of it as just another way of making sure you’re healthy, from the inside out. Even if you don’t plan on having children, your reproductive system is important as it can affect how you feel each and every day.
Pap Smear in Tucson, AZ
Pap smears can help ensure you don’t have any underlying health issues which are keeping you from living your best life. If it’s been awhile, be sure to schedule a Well Woman exam today! Your body will thank you.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and explore your options.