The Link Between Pap Smears and Cervical Cancer Prevention

Regular reproductive examinations are important for women, and part of the reproductive examination is a pap smear. Dr. Sherley Aramath and Dr. Tien Truong at Arlington Family Practice in Arlington, TX, provide comprehensive medical services including routine reproductive examinations for women.

How Having a Pap Smear Can Protect Your Health

A pap smear is a test to identify the presence of human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV is known to cause cervical cancer. When you have a pap smear your gynecologist will take a small sample of cells from your cervix, which is at the lower end of your uterus, at the top of your vagina. The sample of cells is then tested for HPV.

Pap smear testing typically begins at age 21 and should be done every 3 years for women ages 21 to 65. Your gynecologist may recommend more frequent pap smears if you have:

  • An abnormal pap smear
  • A weakened immune system
  • HIV or STD infection

Your gynecologist may discontinue pap smears if you:

  • Have had a total hysterectomy
  • Are age 65 or older, and all your previous pap smears have been normal

A pap smear is the definitive test to check for cervical cancer. Early detection and treatment of cervical cancer are critical to achieving the best outcome.

If your pap smear results are abnormal, your gynecologist might:

  • Repeat the pap smear
  • Prescribe more frequent pap smears to monitor your health
  • Prescribe a test known as a colposcopy, to examine tissue in the cervix, vagina, and vulva

To get an accurate test, you need to:

  • Avoid having intercourse, douching, or using vaginal products for at least two days before your pap smear
  • Avoid having a pap smear at the same time as menstruation

Want To Know More About the Importance of Having a Pap Smear?

To find out more about the link between a pap smear and cervical cancer prevention, call Dr. Sherley Aramath and Dr. Tien Truong at Arlington Family Practice in Arlington, TX. You can reach them in the office by calling (817) 277-6444, so call today.