Return to Conditions We Treat
Pap Smear
A Pap Smear is a test of a sample of cells taken from a woman's cervix. The test is used to look for changes in the cells of the cervix that show cervical cancer or conditions that may develop into cancer. It is the best tool to detect precancerous conditions and hidden, small tumors that may lead to cervical cancer. If detected early, cervical cancer can be cured.
Although a Pap Smear is generally conducted by a gynecologist, your urologist may perform the test if warranted by your condition. All women 18 or older should have an annual pelvic examination, and so should sexually active women younger than 18. You should start Pap screen testing about three years after the onset of sexual intercourse or by age 21, whichever comes first. Yearly screening is recommended for women under 30 and then every 2-3 years for women over 30 with three consecutive normal Pap tests and a negative HPV test.
|
