5 things to know about cervical cancer screening

1. There is a difference between a well woman exam and a pap smear.  A well woman exam is a discussion with your OBGYN about your medical history and a physical exam that should include a breast and pelvic exam.  A pap smear is included in the well woman exam depending on your age, pap smear history and human papilloma virus (HPV) status.  The pap smear is when we place a speculum in your vagina and take a sample of the cells from your cervix and vaginal wall.
2. Young women should start having pap smears at age 21, if they are sexually active or not.
3. HPV is a virus that can cause low or high risk changes to a man or woman’s vagina, cervix, penis, anus, oral tract.  These changes if high risk can lead to cancer of any of those locations.
4. There is a vaccination against HPV which can lower your risk of cancer in any of the areas above.
5. The frequency of screening is based on age and history.

Here is a great table to start you off.  Check with your Primary care or OBGYN to discuss specifics about your care.

If you need an individual or group consultation contact Dr. Kelly O. MD 

VIVALIFE!!!