Pap Smears
A Pap smear tests for abnormal cells in the cervix to prevent cancer
Cervical cancer used to be the leading cause of cancer-related death for women. But those numbers are down thanks to the Pap smear test, according to the American Cancer Society. A 2018 study shows that routine Pap smears detect 92% of cervical cancer cases.
How Often Should You Get a Pap Smear?
People ages 21-29 should have a Pap test every three years. People ages 30-65 should have a Pap test with HPV testing every 5 years.
Your health care provider may recommend that you get tested more frequently if you have a history of:
- HIV
- Cervical cancer
- Pap smears that indicate precancerous cells
- A weakened immune system due to an organ transplant or chemotherapy
- Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth
What Happens During a Pap Smear?
A Pap test procedure involves lying on an examination table with your feet in stirrups. Your gynecologist will open the vagina with a speculum and gently swab the cervix to collect cells and mucus. Pap smears are quick and should not be painful but may cause mild discomfort.
How To Prepare for a Pap Smear
For accurate test results, you should refrain from inserting anything into the vagina for 48 hours before the exam. This includes abstaining from:
- Sex
- Using tampons
- Douching
- Vaginal lubricants or medication
- Vaginal sprays or powder
Where Can I Get a Pap Smear?
Tapestry 360 Health offers Pap smears at all of our clinic locations. If you're looking for an affordable or no-cost PAP smear test, request an appointment at our Wilson clinic! To learn more about how to reduce or cover the cost of your Pap smear test, visit our Family Planning page. If you are ready for an appointment, call us at 773-751-7800.
Our Pap Smears Providers
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