One of the most common preventative medical examinations a woman can have is a Pap smear. While your gynecologist will be able to answer any questions you have, you will want to know more about this medical test before going in for the appointment.

Common Pap Smear Questions Answered 

How is a Pap Smear performed?

During a Pap smear, you will be asked to remove your clothes and change into a gown. Your gynecologist will then use their gloved fingers to feel the size and location of your uterus and ovaries. After this, a speculum is inserted into the vagina so your doctor can examine the vaginal walls and cervix. A small swab or spatula is then used to collect a sample of cells from the cervix. This entire exam shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. 

What does a Pap smear detect?

A Pap smear is used to detect several illnesses and potential complications down the road. They can detect diseases and infections such as yeast infections, STIs, cervical cancer, and human papillomavirus (HPV). These results aren’t immediate; your sample will be sent to a lab, which will take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. 

How often do I need a Pap smear?

After age 21, you should schedule a Pap smear about every three years—unless you have underlying health concerns or risk factors, your doctor may recommend one every year. After menopause, depending on your gynecologic history, you generally need fewer Pap tests and can talk with your doctor about how often you need this during your annual exam.

Is the procedure painful?

Getting a Pap smear may feel uncomfortable the first few times, but it shouldn’t be painful. Your gynecologist will apply pressure to your abdomen to feel your uterus and ovaries, but it should be mild. Afterward, you may experience light bleeding or cramping, which should go away in a day or two. 

For regular Pap smear screening, choose Dr. William M. Jamieson, M.D. in Cincinnati, OH.  Their women’s center provides personalized healthcare, consultations, and screenings to make sure you’re well taken care of. They focus on issues ranging from breast cancer detection to reproductive health and support and ensure that each patient is heard and given the treatment they need. For more information on their patient-centered services, visit their website or call at (513) 241-7744 to speak to an experienced gynecologist today.