Pap smears are an important part of preventive healthcare for individuals with a cervix, playing a crucial role in the early detection of cervical cancer. However, many people have questions about this routine screening procedure. Let us help you answer some of the most common questions.
What is a Pap Smear?
A pap smear, also known as a pap test, is a screening test that involves collecting cervical cells to check for abnormalities or precancerous changes. Your OB-GYN may opt to test for sexually transmitted infections, like human papillomavirus (HPV), during a pap smear exam, too. This is because HPV is the highest significant risk factor for cervical cancer in women over 30.
When should you start getting Pap smears?
In general, individuals with a cervix should start getting pap tests at the age of 21, regardless of whether they are sexually active. The frequency of pap smears may decrease with age, but it is important to follow the recommendations provided by your health care provider, as they will know best about any risk factors your may have.
How often should you get a Pap smear?
"Regular screenings are a proactive approach to reproductive health," Dr. Firestein says. "Current guidelines consider factors like age, previous pap test results and health history to ensure a personalized screening schedule and address individual needs." He continues, "guidelines have shifted toward less frequent testing for certain age groups. However, be sure to consult with your health care provider to determine the most appropriate screening schedule for your individual needs."
Can you get a Pap smear while on your period?
Yes, you can still get pap smears while on your period. Menstrual blood does not interfere with the accuracy of the test. However, some individuals may feel more comfortable scheduling their appointment at a time during their menstrual cycle when they are not on their period.
What shouldn't you do before a Pap smear?
Two days before a pap smear, be sure to avoid sexual intercourse, using vaginal medications or douching. This is because these activities may hide or wash away abnormal cells.
What if your Pap smear results are abnormal?
"Receiving abnormal pap smear results can be concerning, but it's important to remember that abnormalities do not necessarily indicate cancer," Dr. Firestein explains. Many abnormal cells are benign or can be easily treated. Your health care provider will discuss the results with you, recommend any necessary follow-up tests and develop an appropriate plan of action based on your individual situation.
How do they do a Pap if you’re on your period?
If you come in on your period, your doc will place a vaginal speculum into your vagina to look at your cervix. Depending on the amount of blood flow, your doc can use a large cotton swab to absorb any blood in the area, says Dr. Greves. Doing this helps doctors see inside to check for masses or other concerns, as well as remove the cells they need for the pap test. They will also perform a manual exam, which also lets your doctor feel for abnormalities or areas of uterine tenderness. And, there’s more to the exam than just the pap—and all are important for your gynecological and overall health. As Dr. Greves explains, your doctors will ask if you have any new sexual partners (if so, they’ll recommend STI testing), any pain or bleeding abnormalities (which may lead to additional testing or imaging to make sure you’re a-okay), and domestic violence concerns, as well as perform a breast exam and listen to your heart and lungs. Will the results be accurate?
##Today, cervical testing analysis is more sensitive
"Cervical testing analysis is more sensitive, so being on your period won’t Specifically trigger an inaccurate result," says Dr. Greves. "If you come in for a pap on your period, your doc will make their best effort to get the cervical cells they need. If there aren’t enough cervical cells for a result, the test will come back flagged inadequate." I let patients know that there’s a chance they’ll need to come back for another pap if the result of the first one comes back insufficient to make a diagnosis. It’s just something to know and be prepared for should you decide to keep your appointment and go in.
Usually, if a pap is insufficient, the retest will be covered under insurance.
However, insurance plans and rules vastly differ, so if you're concerned, call your insurance company and ask about their policy so that you can avoid any surprise bills lastly, you may not even need a pap smear this year.
