Commonly known as pap test, a pap smear is a quick, simple and essentially painless test or screening to identify the presence of cancerous cells on the cervix, or the mouth of the uterus. Typically, a doctor uses a pap smear test to determine the changes that occur in cervical cells that could lead to cancer.
During the short process, the doctor gently scrapes away the cells from a patient’s cervix and examines them for any abnormal growth. It might be a little uncomfortable for some patients, but usually it does not involve long-term pain.
If you are concerned about the process, we can help you learn what a pap smear is, who needs it and how it is conducted.
Regardless of whether your body shows symptoms of cervical cancer or not, taking a pap test if you are 21 or above is beneficial for you. Cervical cancer is increasingly growing in women, and the rate is comparatively higher in younger females. However, if you are HIV positive or have a weak immune system due to treatments like organ transplant or chemotherapy, you may require a pap smear more frequently.
Apart from these conditions, if you are over 30 and have already had three pap smears consecutively, consult your doctor about taking the test every four years.
HPV virus 16 & 18 are some of the primary causes of cervical cancer. If you are HVP positive, the risk of developing cancerous cells is high. Women who are over the age of 60 with no medical history of HPV can prevent cervical cancer with the help of pap smear results.
The pap test does not take more than 15 or 20 minutes. Your doctor inserts a speculum (a metal tool) into your vagina to widen the vaginal walls, which allows the doctor to see and check your cervix. The doctor takes a sample of your cells from the cervix using a swab. The sample is placed into a chemical liquid to be sent to a laboratory for review.
The doctor receives the results within four to five days. There is nothing to worry about if your results are negative. It means you have no infection or abnormal cells in your cervix. However, if the results are positive, it indicates that you are suffering from minor cellular changes that can be cleared up in a few months. If the cells continue to grow, your doctor will prescribe more tests like a colposcopy for further screening.
Request an appointment here: https://herndon.millenniummedicalcare.com or call Millennium Medical Care Herndon at (703) 743-7849 for an appointment in our Herndon office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Internal medicine identifies and treats adult diseases. A doctor in this field can also help with disease prevention in high-risk patients. Knowing why you must visit this clinic can motivate you to set an appointment. Here are four reasons to visit an internal medicine clinic.Disease prevention is one of the priorities of an internal medicine…
Internal medicine providers help adult patients stay on top of their health. They offer unique benefits, as well as those that you would expect from any doctor (timely diagnosis, etc.). If you are looking for a new healthcare provider, an internal medicine doctor may check all the boxes.Also known as internists, internal medicine practitioners are…
Sexually transmitted diseases, also known as STDs, are a more common problem than many Americans think. Unfortunately, stigma can prevent patients from getting STD testing and the treatment they need. Prompt treatment of STDs can prevent severe complications later on.An urgent care physician can help diagnose, treat, and manage symptoms. When it comes to your…
Wondering why choosing the right primary care doctor is so important? Because this type of medical professional is your first point of contact whenever you are experiencing any type of health issue. They are your go-to doctor whether you are in need of treatment for a cold or when you need help managing a chronic…
Internal medicine identifies and treats adult diseases. A doctor in this field can also help with disease prevention in high-risk patients. Knowing why you must visit this clinic can motivate you to set an appointment. Here are four reasons to visit an internal medicine clinic.Disease prevention is one of the priorities of an internal medicine…
Internal medicine providers help adult patients stay on top of their health. They offer unique benefits, as well as those that you would expect from any doctor (timely diagnosis, etc.). If you are looking for a new healthcare provider, an internal medicine doctor may check all the boxes.Also known as internists, internal medicine practitioners are…