Regular cervical exams from a gynecologist can be a lifesaver. They detect a range of issues that otherwise would go unnoticed, including cervical cancer, precancerous conditions, and  human papillomavirus. Advanced OB-GYN Services, with offices in St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO, wants every woman to understand why these examinations are an essential component to their health care regimen. 

The most common cervical screening test is arguably the most important. The pap smear, also called a pap test or cervical cytology, is used to detect cellular abnormalities that indicate the presence or risk of cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV). In general, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends women have a pap test every three years from ages 21–29 and every five years from ages 30–65.

HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer worldwide. It also is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Doctors will administer an HPV test to younger women as necessary following an abnormal pap test, and women age 65 and older who have undergone cervical cancer tests with no abnormal results can forego further testing. However, those with a history of severe cervical precancer, regardless of age, should be tested regularly for a minimum of 20 years following their diagnosis. 

According to the American Cancer Institute, the number of cervical cancer diagnoses fell dramatically after the invention of the Pap test in 1943 and its widespread implementation by gynecologists. There was a 70% decrease from 1950–1970, and the rate dropped by 50% from 1970–2000. Recent statistics from the American Cancer Society show about 50% of women diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer hadn’t had a pap test, and 10% hadn’t had one in the five years before their diagnosis. In the United States there are about 12,000 new diagnoses of cervical cancer and 4,000 deaths annually, according to the ACS. 

Routine exams by a gynecologist are essential to reducing your risk of cervical cancer and promoting reproductive health. The professionals at Advanced OB-GYN Services provide an array of services to meet all your women’s health care needs, ranging from cervical screenings and fertility treatments to prenatal and postnatal care. To schedule an appointment, call (314) 291-2140 for their Bridgeton office or (636) 928-1800 for their St. Peters location. Visit their website for more information about their services.