A regular Pap smear is one of the most effective preventive health measures women can take. This simple procedure examines cells collected from your cervix to identify potential problems early. The test takes just a few minutes during your gynecological exam and provides vital information about your cervical health that could literally save your life.
In Salem, Oregon, the team at Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc., provides this crucial screening as part of our comprehensive women’s health services. Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore your routine Pap smear.
When you stay on track with scheduled Pap smears, they can detect abnormal changes before they become cancer. Identifying cellular changes at the precancerous stage means treatment can be simpler, less invasive, and more effective than treating developed cancer.
Early cervical cancer often has no noticeable symptoms. Without regular screenings, the disease can progress undetected until it reaches advanced stages when treatment becomes more difficult and less effective. By the time symptoms like abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain appear, the cancer may have already spread beyond the cervix.
This silent progression makes routine screening the most powerful tool we have against cervical cancer. It allows us to catch problems years before symptoms would alert you to a problem.
Women should begin regular Pap testing at age 21. Between ages 21-29, we typically recommend screenings every three years. For women age 30-65, testing every five years is typically sufficient when combined with HPV testing.
Those with certain risk factors may need more frequent screenings, including women with:
We always conduct a thorough review of your medical history before determining the best screening schedule for your needs.
During your appointment, your provider inserts a speculum into your vagina to access your cervix. Using a small brush or spatula, we collect cell samples and send them to a laboratory for evaluation.
Most women experience only brief pressure or a slight pinching sensation during the collection process. The entire procedure typically takes less than five minutes, making it one of the most efficient cancer screening methods available in modern medicine.
Most women receive negative results, meaning no abnormal cells were found. If your results show abnormalities, don’t panic. Many abnormal results are caused by inflammation, minor infections, or hormonal changes – not cancer.
Our team guides you through any necessary follow-up testing, such as colposcopy or biopsy. We explain your options thoroughly and create a personalized plan to address any concerns identified during screening.
Since widespread Pap testing began, cervical cancer death rates have decreased by more than half. When detected early, the five-year survival rate is over 90%. Without screening, many preventable cases progress to life-threatening stages.
Call Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc. today to schedule your Pap smear or book an appointment online anytime. This simple test is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term health.
