Why You Should Never Ignore Chronic Pelvic Pain
Chronic pelvic pain doesn’t just disrupt your life, it can also indicate an underlying gynecological issue that needs treatment. Read on for reasons you shouldn’t ignore chronic pelvic pain.
Your Guide to Pap Smears: Who Needs One, Why, and How Often?
To protect you from cervical cancer, experienced OB/GYN Dr. Leonardo A. Longoria recommends that you follow official guidelines for cervical cancer screening. Dr. Longoria and his team at Longoria OBGYN provide Pap smears and other women’s health care from their easy-to-access location in El Paso, Texas.
Are you unsure if you’re due for a Pap smear this spring? Could you even be overdue? Here’s what you need to know about who needs Pap smears, how frequently, and why you need to stay up-to-date with this part of your preventive health care.
The importance of Pap smears
Cervical cancer is one of the health conditions that uniquely affect female biology. This type of cancer affects your cervix, which is located at the top of your vaginal canal and opens into your uterus.
Cervical cancer screening starts with a Pap smear. This in-office exam involves collecting a sample of tissue from your cervix, which is then scanned in a lab for early warning signs of potential cancer.
A Pap smear is one of the best ways to detect potential cervical cancer early, which means better chances for better outcomes. Cervical cancer can be deadly if not caught and treated early. So, getting regular Pap smears can actually save your life. In fact, statistics show that getting regular Pap smears lowers the risk of death from cervical cancer.
Guidelines for Pap smears
How often should you get a Pap smear? The answer is, it depends on factors like your age as well as your pre-existing risks for cervical cancer. Dr. Longoria can help you determine the best schedule of Pap smears for your preventive care needs.
Who needs a Pap smear? Women and people with female reproductive organs should:
- Start getting Pap smears at the age of 21
- Between the ages of 21-65, get a Pap smear at least once every three years
After the age of 30, Dr. Longoria suggests that you consider adding human papillomavirus (HPV) testing to your regular Pap smear.
Pap smears: Protecting your health
You may need more frequent Pap smears if you have pre-existing risk factors for cervical cancer. These include:
- A family history of cervical cancer
- A personal history of Pap smears that return a positive result
- A prior HPV diagnosis
Some people don’t need Pap smears as often. Getting a negative Pap smear and HPV test may mean you won’t need retesting for as long as five years.
The best way to ensure you’re getting Pap smears with enough regularity is to talk to an expert like Dr. Longoria about the optimal plan for you. Dr. Longoria conducts your Pap smear and makes sure you understand your results when they come back from the lab. If you receive a positive result, Dr. Longoria advises you on next steps.
If you think you might need a Pap smear, schedule one now at Longoria OBGYN. Late is definitely better than never when it comes to this screening test. Schedule your appointment by calling our office today or requesting a visit online anytime.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Are Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) the Most Effective Way to Prevent Pregnancy?
When you need long-lasting, highly effective birth control, you may benefit most from an intrauterine device (IUD). Read on to understand how IUDs function so effectively in preventing pregnancy.
These Lesser-Known Symptoms of Menopause Might Surprise You
Women transition into menopause when their reproductive years come to an end. Menopause and perimenopause often come with uncomfortable symptoms, some of which can affect you in unexpected ways. Learn more about less common menopause symptoms.
Surprise Late-Life Baby? 4 Tips for a Safe and Successful Pregnancy
Late-life surprise pregnancy is more common than you realize. If this happens to you, how should you handle your pregnancy for the health of you and your baby? Read on to learn more.
Consider These 3 Factors When Choosing the Right Birth Control for You
Birth control puts you in charge of your reproductive health. How do you choose a form of birth control that works well for you? Here are three key factors to consider when selecting a type of birth control.
Rev Up Your Sex Life With Vaginal Rejuvenation
If your sex life doesn't produce the sparks you're looking for, why not rev things up with noninvasive vaginal rejuvenation? Women can address vaginal dryness, improve their ability to orgasm, and improve appearances “down there.” Read to learn more.