What can you do instead of a Pap smear?

TUESDAY, Aug. 21, 2018 (HealthDay News) — The Pap smear has long been the gold standard for cervical cancer screening, but an expert panel now says the HPV (human papillomavirus) test is also an option for women over 30.

What is a Pap smear called now?

The Pap test (sometimes called the Pap smear) has changed to the cervical screening test.

Is a Pap smear the same as a well woman exam?

Although not the same, a pelvic exam and a pap smear are both necessary components for a woman’s health, although not for the same reasons. A pelvic exam is more concerned with the health of your vagina and pelvis, while a pap smear looks for abnormal cell changes that may potentially lead to cervical cancer.

What is female pap?

A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is a procedure to test for cervical cancer in women. A Pap smear involves collecting cells from your cervix — the lower, narrow end of your uterus that’s at the top of your vagina. Detecting cervical cancer early with a Pap smear gives you a greater chance at a cure.

Can I do my own Pap smear?

At Home HPV Testing. Our HPV test screens for the strains of HPV that potentially lead to cervical cancer. It’s quick, easy and can be done by you in the privacy of your own home.

Why do Pap smears hurt?

When Pap smears are uncomfortable, it’s often because there’s a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region. Urinating beforehand can relieve some of this pressure. In some cases, your doctor might request a urine sample, so be sure to ask if it’s OK to use the restroom beforehand.

What do you call vagina exam?

A pelvic exam is a doctor’s visual and physical examination of a woman’s reproductive organs. During the exam, the doctor inspects the vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, vulva, ovaries, and uterus.

Do you need a Pap smear if you’re a virgin?

Yes. Doctors recommend routine cervical cancer screening, regardless of your sexual history. Tests used to screen for cervical cancer include the Pap test and the HPV test.

Why is it called a Pap smear?

A Pap smear or Pap test is a screening test for cervical cancer. It is named after Georgios Papanikolaou, the doctor who determined its use in detecting early signs that could lead to cervical cancer. It is one form of cervical cancer screening.

Should virgins get a Pap test?

Do virgins need Pap smears? Answer From Tatnai Burnett, M.D. Yes. Doctors recommend routine cervical cancer screening, regardless of your sexual history.

What is a female Pap smear test for?

The female Pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer, which is a sexually-induced cancer caused by the Human Papillomavirus. The Human Papillomavirus is also easily transmitted to the anus in men who have sex with men.

Do men need Pap smears too?

Yes, Men Need Pap Smears Too! Posted on March 6, 2013 by. Go ahead and laugh, but it’s true. Men get Pap smears too. Not all men. Just high-risk men who have sex with men. The female Pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer, which is a sexually-induced cancer caused by the Human Papillomavirus.

Can a Pap smear alone determine if you have HPV?

Since a Pap smear alone cannot determine if precancerous cells are present, further testing is needed. This is true whether your HPV test is positive or negative. Often times the next step is a colposcopy, with biopsies of any abnormal appearing regions.

What should I do if my Pap smear results show LSIL?

With a Pap smear showing LSIL, the first step is to look at the HPV test (and to order one if not previously done). If the HPV test is negative, a repeat HPV test and Pap smear may be done in one year. If your HPV test is positive, especially for HPV 16 or 18, a colposcopy (with or without biopsies) may be recommended. 5