What Is A Pap Smear Test, And Why Could It Save Your Life?
A Pap Smear, commonly called a Pap test, is a screening procedure used to detect abnormal cell growth in the cervix and diagnose cervical cancer in females.
WHO reports that cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally. On the other hand, as stated by the CDC, almost 11000+ cases are diagnosed annually in the US.
But even if you don’t have cervical cancer, finding cell changes early can prevent you from developing it. Experts suggest getting a pap smear every three years after the age of 21.
Can Urgent Care Perform A Pap Smear Procedure?
Yes. Many urgent care centers can perform Pap smear tests, but availability may vary by location. However, it’s not a standard at all locations.
It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm availability and whether they have the necessary equipment and trained staff.
At Family Urgent Care, we make Pap smears stress-free and straightforward. You can book online or just walk in. Our experienced, compassionate providers will guide you every step of the way.
Who & When You Should Get A Pap Smear Test?
Healthcare experts suggest that every woman get a Pap smear test as follows:
- Women aged 21 to 29 should get the test every 3 years
- Women aged 30 to 65 should get a Pap smear and an HPV test every 5 years
- Sexually active females should get routine Pap smears as recommended by their doctor
- If you have a history of abnormal pap test results or HPV infection in the past.
- Women who are HIV positive or suffer from immunocompromised conditions, like organ transplants or chronic use of corticosteroids.
There is no need for cervical cancer screenings for females who are over 65 years and have had no abnormal test results in the last 10 years.
How Can You Prepare Yourself For A Pap Smear Test?
There are a few things that might affect pap smear results, so it’s better to avoid the following activities before your test:
- Avoid sexual intercourse for two days before your exam
- Do not use any vaginal creams, medicines, or birth control foams or jellies for at least two days.
- Do not use any sprays or powders near the vagina
Also, you can schedule your appointment five days after your period ends to get accurate results.
When Can You Expect Pap Smear Test Results?
How Are Pap Smear Tests Performed at Fam Urgent Care?
A pap smear test can be performed during a pelvic exam, in which the patient lies on their back with knees bent and heels on the footrest.
The doctor inserts a speculum inside the vagina and takes a few cells from the cervix by using a small soft brush.
The sample is further sent to the lab for testing or identifying the presence of abnormal cells. Some patients might bleed during the procedure. Your pap smear test results could be negative or positive.
A negative report generally means you do not have any abnormal cells and are cancer-free for the next 3 years. However, in the case of positive reports, it is not necessary that cancer is present, but it can indicate the presence of abnormal pre-cancerous cells.
FAQs
No, a Pap smear checks for abnormal cervical cells only. STD testing requires a separate test, which we also offer. You can even book a same-day appointment at your nearest location in Indiana or Illinois.
No, there is no need to shave or groom the vaginal area before your Pap smear. Your healthcare provider
