If you’re a woman who is 21 years of age or older, you should be getting a yearly Pap smear. It doesn’t matter whether it’s from a gynecologist, your primary care doctor, or a women’s health organization—what matters is that you get one. A Pap smear is a simple and painless procedure in which a physician uses an instrument called a speculum to examine the cervix and scrape a small cell sample to screen for cervical cancer. Read on to learn why this medical procedure is of such vital importance. 

3 Reasons to Get a Pap Smear

1. Prevent Cervical Cancer

A Pap smear doesn’t detect cervical cancer itself. Instead, it looks for abnormal or precancerous cells that could be indicators of cervical cancer or other diseases down the line. Screening for cervical cancer is important because, when caught early, you can avoid a serious and even fatal disease. 

2. Screen for HPV

Doctors recommend screening for human papillomavirus (HPV) during the Pap smear in women over 30. HPV is a common, sexually transmitted infection that often yields no symptoms but can cause cervical cancer. Many women have HPV and don’t know it, so screenings are important.

3. Pelvic Exam & STD Screening

A Pap smear is often accompanied by a pelvic exam, which checks for abnormalities in the organs which occupy the pelvic region, such as the uterus, ovaries, bladder, and fallopian tube. Patients also usually have the option to test for STDs at the same time.

At All Wellness Medical Center in Bullhead City, AZ, doctors provide a range of women’s health services, including Pap smears, breast exams, and other types of preventative care. With this premier health facility, you can get the women’s health care assistance you need from a friendly and dedicated staff. Call today at (928) 704-4499 to schedule an appointment. For more information on their services, visit their website.