johnnyNON asked 8 years ago

What does a Pap Smear test for?

1 Answers
Dr. Falae Staff answered 3 years ago

A pap smear test is used to screen for cervical cancer. The test involves a very light scraping of cells generally from the surface of the cervix or vagina. The cells are then examined to determine if they are abnormal. One virus that can be unearthed in a pap smear is the Human Papilloma virus (HPV) which has been implicated as the cause of 98% of cervical cancer.
Depending on the result of your pap smear, your doctor may advise you to come back in at a later time for a follow-up pap smear to come in for a follow-up colposcopy (A colposcopy is a study that uses a microscope to allow us to take a closer and more in-depth look inside of the vagina and at the cervix)
If you are under the age of 26, we strongly recommend getting an HPV vaccine to reduce the risk of cervical cancer. We offer the Gardasil vaccine in our clinic. If interested, please call and schedule an appointment