This year alone, up to 13,240 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer, a disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). To ensure your health and wellness, it’s wise to schedule a pap smear with a gynecologist, as the exam detects cancerous and pre-cancerous cells. The American Cancer Society offers several guidelines for how often a pap smear should be performed. They recommend scheduling one pap smear at the ages of 21, 24, and 27; then the schedule can be adjusted to once every five years until the patient turns 65. 

Why Schedule a Pap Smear? 

Pap smears are crucial to diagnosing pre-cancerous and cancerous cells. If abnormal cells are discovered, gynecologists can offer safe and effective treatments to eradicate them. For instance, cryosurgery is a method of removing problem tissues, known as cysts, before they become cancerous.

As with most diseases, early treatment is key to producing a positive outcome. Once cancer is in the later stages, aggressive methods are necessary, such as chemotherapy and radiation, which have more dangerous side-effects and complications. By getting an early diagnosis through pap smear testing, you stand a better chance of avoiding these harmful alternatives.

What About Testing for HPV? 

Doctors use a slightly different test for diagnosing HPV, which is often the precursor to cancer. To test for HPV, the doctor will use a swab to culture the patient's cervix. In some cases, gynecologists might test for HPV during a pap smear; the patient probably will not feel a difference between the two exams. 

If you need to schedule a pap smear this year, call Greece Obstetrics and Gynecology in Rochester, NY. They have an established reputation for kind and compassionate care and three decades of experience treating women’s health issues. To make an appointment with a gynecologist, call (585) 225-6680 today. You can also visit the website for more helpful resources about women’s reproductive health.