Do you need a Pap smear if on birth control?

You should have pelvic exams and Pap tests based on your age and health history. But you don’t need an exam or Pap test just to get a prescription for birth control pills. Before you get birth control pills, your doctor should always do a basic medical exam and: Check your blood pressure.

Do I have to tell my doctor I’m on birth control?

Don’t be afraid to discuss birth control or sex with your doctor. Thanks to doctor–patient confidentiality, your doc can’t talk to your parents about these topics without your permission. The Pill is covered by most health insurance, but if you are on your parents’ plan, they may know if insurance pays for it.

Does birth control affect Pap smear results?

July 9, 2003 — Women who take birth control pills may be more likely to get inaccurate results indicating the presence of abnormal cells or early cancer of the cervix when their doctors use the most popular type of Pap test, suggests a new study.

How often do you need a Pap smear for birth control?

Refilling birth control pills over the phone is simply part of the job. As cervical cancer screening is now recommended to be done every three years, hopefully the Pap smear-pill linkage will finally die.

Who needs a Pap smear?

Women should start Pap smear screening at age 21. Between the ages of 21-29, women whose Pap smears are normal only need it repeated every three years. Women ages 30 and over should have testing for the human papillomavirus (HPV) with their Pap smear. HPV is the cause of cervical cancer.

What should you not do before a Pap smear?

Avoid intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal medicines or spermicidal foams, creams or jellies for two days before having a Pap smear, as these may wash away or obscure abnormal cells. Try not to schedule a Pap smear during your menstrual period. It’s best to avoid this time of your cycle, if possible.

When should a teenager get a Pap smear?

According to ACOG guidelines, PAP smears should begin at age 21, regardless of when a girl becomes sexually active. I will, however, perform a general physical exam.