Early cervical cancer testing may lower your risk of further complications and is the key to starting treatment that can save your life. Suppose you suspect that you are a candidate and want to clear the fears, there is someone ready to help you out. Dr. Karen Brodman New York is a gynecologist who offers you the best Pap smear that will depend on your medical history. Do not hesitate to make your appointment with her if you want to get quality healthcare and an accurate diagnosis for your condition.

What is a Pap smear?

This procedure involves the collection of cervical cells to test for any cancerous cells that may be cervical cancer in women. Cervix is the narrow opening of your uterus. Pap smear screens for cervical cancer may mostly occur during your pelvic exam. There may be cases where your Pap test may go alongside an HPV test.

Do you need a Pap smear?

Yes, you may need a Pap test if you are already at age 21. You may discuss with your doctor how frequently you may need the test. There are guidelines recommending that you have HPV testing every five years as they may increase your risk of having cervical cancer and may be the primary cause of cervical cancer. Your doctor may recommend frequent tests if you may have the following:

·                     Are HIV-positive

·                     Weakened immune from an organ transplant or chemotherapy

·                     Smoking history

·                     A Pap test that may have shown precancerous cells

You may not need a Pap test if you have conditions including:

·                     After a total hysterectomy

After surgical removal of your reproductive organs, including your cervix, you may stop having a Pap smear. If you had a hysterectomy for any cancerous conditions, you might continue your Pap test depending on your doctor’s instructions.

·                     Are age 65

If you are older, say 65, your doctor may suggest you stop Pap tests if your previous tests were negative.

You may be sexually active and have multiple sex partners; your doctor may suggest you keep going for the Pap tests.

What happens during a Pap smear?

Your doctor may recommend some measures you need to take before your Pap test to ensure that your test will be effective. They may include:

·                     you may need to avoid intercourse or using any spermicidal or vaginal medicines two days before your test.

·                     You should not schedule your test during your menstrual period.

Your doctor may ask you to lie down on the table with your heels resting in stirrups. Then your doctor may gently insert a speculum into your vagina to hold the walls apart. You may feel some sensation of pressure during the insertion of the speculum. Your doctor will then take samples of your cells with a soft brush and a spatula. You may have any of the following results:

·                     Normal

It means you have a negative result. You may wait until your next pelvic exam or another Pap test.

·                     Abnormal

Abnormal results mean a positive result. You may not have cervical cancer, but that will depend on the cells found in your test. Your doctor may take the sample into the lab for a defined diagnosis.

Schedule your appointment with Karen F. Brodman, MD, PLLC, today for a Pap smear.