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Per the expert, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this—namely because how often women should get a pap smear depends on their age and gynecologic history.
The Papanicolaou test (abbreviated as Pap test, also known as Pap smear (AE), [1] cervical smear (BE), cervical screening (BE), [2] or smear test (BE)) is a method of cervical screening used to detect potentially precancerous and cancerous processes in the cervix (opening of the uterus or womb) or, more rarely, anus (in both men and women). [3]
Normal cervical cells in a Pap smear. In the conventional Pap smear, the collected cells are smeared on a microscope slide, and a fixative is applied. The slide is evaluated in a pathology lab to identify cellular abnormalities. Accuracy of conventional cytology report: [10] sensitivity: 55% to 88%; specificity: 71% to 94%
Depending on patient's age or Pap smear result, HPV testing may also be performed. Sexually transmitted infection screening - Depending on age and risk factors, clinicians may recommend gonorrhea or chlamydia testing at the time of the well-woman exam. This sample can be collected via a swab of the cervix or vagina.
Currently, the pap smear — in which cells taken from the cervix are examined by a doctor “for cervical cancer or cell changes,” per the National Cancer Institute — is the recommended ...
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The pelvic exam begins with a discussion as described above, and an explanation of the procedure. The patient is asked to put on an examination gown, get on the examination table, and lie on her back with her feet in footrests. [3] Sliding down toward the end of the table is the best position for the clinician to do a visual examination. [18]
PAP smears fall under the category of preventive health services. They help healthcare professionals screen people for potential cervical cancer and other health issues. Coverage may vary based on ...