What is a PAP smear?
PAP smear is short for Papanicolaou. This particular procedure requires the doctor to obtain a sample of the cells in the uterine cervix. Then, he sends them to a lab for further testing to evaluate them and look for signs of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is one of the top our most common causes of cancer-related deaths among women throughout the world, but can be detected sooner rather than later using PAP smears.
Additionally, the PAP smear can also spot precancerous changes to the cervix or the viral infection HPV (human papillomavirus) which is known to cause cervical cancer. With early detection, most patients can stop cervical cancer before it fully develops. The PAP smear is recommended with each routine gynecology appointment to monitor for cervical cancer, as most women do not experience symptoms until the cancer has become more serious.
With proper prevention and screening of cervical cancer, women can significantly reduce their chance of developing this condition and battling cancer, regardless of their age.
Who is more at risk of developing cervical cancer?
There are some factors that can increase a patient’s risk for developing cervical cancer. This includes:
- Women with a genetic history of cervical cancer in the family
- Individuals who smoke cigarettes or tobacco
- Those with weakened immune systems
- Women who have previously had cancer of the lower genital tract
- Patients who start engaging in sexual intercourse at an early age
- Those with multiple sexual partners
- Women with sexual partners who have had multiple sexual partners
Schedule a visit at Columbus Women’s Care today!
Call (614) 755-4200 to request an appointment with the team at Columbus Women’s Care in Canal Winchester, OH. Our practice is conveniently located at 7901 Diley Road, Suite 205/260. Our facility offers a wide range of solutions for the reproductive health of women who visit the office for comprehensive care.
