Cervical health isn’t something you think about every day, but you know that it’s an important part of overall health. It’s why Pap smears are such an essential part of your well-woman visit. This simple screening test helps detect cervical cell changes early, often long before they develop into serious conditions like cervical cancer.
Since becoming a routine health screening tool, rates of cervical cancer have declined significantly.
Given that January is national Cervical Health Awareness Month, our experienced providers at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, in Hastings and Grand Island, Nebraska, are taking this opportunity to share what you should know about Pap smears and why they matter.
What is a Pap smear?
A Pap smear is a health screening test used to detect cervical cancer and precancerous cell changes. During the test, we collect a sample of cells from your cervix and examine them for abnormalities that may suggest cancer or its early warning signs.
Finding abnormal cells during the early stages greatly increases your chances of successful treatment and may even give us an opportunity to prevent you from developing cervical cancer altogether.
Pap smears are often paired with testing for human papilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted disease (STD) responsible for most cases of cervical cancer. While many women clear the viral infection on their own, some do not.
Knowing you have HPV may mean more frequent monitoring, additional testing, and treatment that protects cervical health.
Why Pap smears are important
Pap smears are important because they save lives. According to the American Cancer Society, cervical cancer rates have dropped by more than 50% since Pap smear screening became standard in the 1970s.
Because cervical cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms during the early stages, Pap smears can identify changes before you feel unwell. Treating problems during the early stages usually means the disease is more responsive to treatment, increasing your chances of a full recovery.
When you need a Pap smear
We recommend that women start Pap smears at age 21. You repeat the health screening every three years until age 29.
Starting at age 30, we may combine your Pap smear with HPV testing. If your HPV test is negative, you only need screenings every five years. If we detect HPV, we may recommend more frequent screenings.
What your Pap results mean
Pap smear results are either negative (normal) or positive (abnormal). A negative result means your cervical cells look healthy. A positive result doesn’t mean you have cervical cancer, just that abnormal cells were found.
If you test positive, we guide you through the next steps, which may include additional testing or a procedure to remove abnormal cells before they become a concern.
The HPV vaccine is another powerful tool for preventing cervical cancer. It helps your immune system fight off high-risk strains of HPV if you’re exposed to the virus.
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to prioritize preventive care. If you’re due for your Pap smear this year, schedule it today.
Call Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, today or request an appointment online through this link.
