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Preventative women’s health screenings are the best way to discover diseases and provide effective treatment. If you are a female over the age of 21, making an appointment for a pap smear with your gynecology office is the safest and most convenient way to detect the presence of cervical cancer. Learn more below about these examinations and how a few minutes with your doctor will protect your reproductive health. 

What Is a Pap Smear? 

A pap smear is a routine test performed by gynecologists to check for cancerous and precancerous cervical cells. The evaluation takes between 10-20 minutes and often happens at the same time as your annual wellness evaluation. During the test, you will lie on the table with your feet placed in stirrups. The doctor will insert a metal or plastic speculum into your vagina to get a closer look at your cervix.

Rochester-Pap-SmearNext, they will take a sample of the cells and send them to a lab for a review. If your results are normal, you will visit your gynecology office every three years to repeat the test. If they are abnormal, your doctor can recommend additional screening or a treatment plan. 

Why Are They Important? 

Many women who develop cervical cancer will have no symptoms. Screening is essential to make sure precancerous cells do not develop into cancer. If your results are abnormal, your doctor can keep a closer eye on suspicious tissues.

The physician may also recommend a colposcopy. A colposcopy is a procedure that uses magnification and light to see cervical tissues more clearly. A biopsy can also be performed if necessary. For more information, talk to your OB-GYN services provider. 

 

Regular pap smears are essential for protecting your health and preventing the development of cancer. If you need an exam, Greece OB-GYN in Rochester, NY, has been serving the community for over 30 years and has daytime and evening appointments available. To schedule a Pap smear, call them at (585) 225-6680. For information about their gynecologists and practice, visit their website. Discover family planning and gynecological health tips by following them on Facebook

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