To lower your risk of contracting the virus, practice sex with a condom or other barrier method. All sexually active women are at risk for contracting HPV and should get a Pap smear at least every three years.
Genital human papillomavirus HPV infection is a common sexually transmitted infection STI caused by human papillomavirus. There are several…. An abnormal Pap smear test does not mean you have cancer, but it could mean that you have precancerous cells or HPV. Women have specific nutrient needs that change throughout their lifespan. This article covers vitamins for women and explains vitamin sources, dietary…. A pelvic exam is a visual and physical examination of a woman's reproductive organs.
Coronary artery disease reduces blood flow to your heart. Learn how to recognize coronary artery disease symptoms, how to manage the symptoms, and…. Getting a regular Pap smear test is an important way to screen for STDs and cervical cancers. Learn how frequently you should get one. They can prevent more serious disease and change as you age. Your doctors are there to help you and all women lead healthy lives.
Learn how to get the most out of your healthcare team. From navigating a healthy diet to your mental health, these books will help shed some light on the complex world of women's health. Learn about factors that affect the kidneys, symptoms, and…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.
The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina. It's not a test for cancer, it's a test to help prevent cancer. All women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 should be invited by letter. During the screening appointment, a small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix. The sample is checked for certain types of human papillomavirus HPV that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix.
These are called "high risk" types of HPV. This procedure is done with the help of a special instrument known as colposcope, and is performed to examine closely the tissues of vulva, vagina, and cervix.
Sometimes, the doctors also recommend a biopsy test, wherein a small tissue sample is taken from the area, which has an abnormality. This small tissue sample is then sent to the lab for further testing, in order to get a confirmed diagnosis. The woman should stop getting Pap smear done if there is no history of any precancerous conditions or cervical cancer.
Also, if the woman has reached the age of 65 years and above, she can stop undergoing the test, after consultation with the doctor. The doctors can also advise stopping Pap test after a woman undergoes a hysterectomy for a non-cancerous growth, like in case of fibroids. Results of Pap test showing positive results do not always indicate presence of cancer cells.
There are various levels of abnormal cells, as mentioned below. A further evaluation, by the physician, might be necessary to make a confirmed diagnosis for cancer.
State Location Phone No. Home All Medical Procedures Pap smear. Pap smear Pap smear or Pap test is performed to check for cervical cancer in females. What are the risks? How to prepare for the procedure? Expected results from the procedure FAQ Section. Some of the factors, which can increase the risk of cervical cancer include: A diagnosis of cancer of the cervix or a previous Pap test that showed some precancerous cells. Weak immune system due to the organ transplant, chronic use of corticosteroid or chemotherapy.
There are certain cases, wherein patients do not require pap test, as mentioned below. After the total hysterectomy procedure — After the removal of the uterus and the cervix of the woman, the patient should consult the doctor if the Pap test is to be continued. In case, the surgical procedure of hysterectomy was conducted to eliminate the non-cancerous lesions, then the routine Pap test can be discontinued.
However, if the hysterectomy procedure was conducted for a cancerous or precancerous lesion, then the doctor advises to continue undergoing Pap test regularly. A very small number of abnormal or cancer cells Inappropriate sample collection of the cervical cells Presence of some unclear inflammatory blood cells. Some side effects and complications associated with the Pap smear test are as mentioned.
Vaginal bleeding or blood spotting after the Pap test. Excessive or heavy bleeding is specifically a concern. Chances of infection if the instrument is not sterilized. Before the procedure : The doctor or the nurse explains the procedure in detail to the patient. This result means the cells collected for the Pap smear appear so abnormal that the pathologist is almost certain a cancer is present.
If such cells are found, your doctor will recommend prompt evaluation. If your Pap smear is abnormal, your doctor may perform a procedure called colposcopy using a special magnifying instrument colposcope to examine the tissues of the cervix, vagina and vulva.
Your doctor also may take a tissue sample biopsy from any areas that appear abnormal. The tissue sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis and a definitive diagnosis. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.
This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Pap test Open pop-up dialog box Close. Pap test In a Pap test, your doctor uses a vaginal speculum to hold your vaginal walls apart and to see the cervix. Pap smear: Still needed after hysterectomy? Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Female reproductive system Open pop-up dialog box Close. Female reproductive system The ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix and vagina vaginal canal make up the female reproductive system.
Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Cervical cancer screening. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Accessed May 28, Pap test. Office on Women's Health. Feldman S, et al. Screening for cervical cancer. Smith RA, et al.
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