By: Erin Persaud
The procedure is named after Georgios Papanikolaou, the doctor who developed the test, and the actual step of smearing the sample onto a slide for microscopy.
While pap smears are often talked about in hushed tones, or not at all, they are incredibly important in the detection of cervical cancer. Early-stage cervical cancer doesn’t really have symptoms, so there’s no way to detect it without testing. Cervical cancer is the 4th most common cancer in women worldwide, and can be caught early thanks to the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine and Pap screenings.
According to the American Cancer Society, “Cervical cancer is most frequently diagnosed in women between the ages of 35 and 64, with the average age being 50. It rarely develops in women younger than 20.” The National Cancer Institute reports a 5-year survival rate of 68%, with a better chance of survival when detected early.
Pap smears are done by a gynecologist or primary health care provider. A speculum, a metal tool, is lubricated and slid into the vagina. It holds the vagina walls open so the care provider can get the best sample. A brush and a spatula are used to collect cells from the cervix, which then go in a tube with a liquid. That is sent to a lab, where it is analyzed for abnormal cells. A test for HPV is often done at the same time, as the presence of HPV can be an early indicator of pre-cancerous cells.
The most important part: it is uncomfortable, but it doesn’t hurt. And it won’t hurt. The worst you will feel is a little cramping like you get around your period.
So, when should you get tested?
When you are age 21, you should schedule your first pap smear. Then make sure to get one every 3 years if the results come back normal, and more often as directed by your doctor. Current guidelines recommend every 5 years starting at age 30 if you can get both a Pap and an HPV test together, or every 3 years if not.
Aging has its difficulties, but once you hit 65, you no longer have to get screened (unless your doctor says otherwise), so that’s a bonus!
One more thing. This isn’t going to pick up other STDs, so please get tested separately for those if you are sexually active.
Who should get tested?
Everyone with a cervix over age 21. Yes, even if you’re a virgin. Yes, regardless of your sexual orientation. Cervical cancer doesn’t care.
If you are worried about affording it, local health departments, community health centers, and clinics like Planned Parenthood may provide services based on income level. Your area may also have free clinics.
TL:DR? Go get your cervix checked if you are over 21 and haven’t yet!
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