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Pap Smears services offered in Boca Raton, FL
More than 13,000 women in the United States receive a cervical cancer diagnosis every year. To identify early signs of cervical cancer, the team at Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery in Boca Raton, Florida, offers routine Pap smears. This minimally invasive diagnostic test is your first line of defense against complications from cervical cancer and is an important part of preventive health care. Schedule a Pap smear at Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery by calling the office or by requesting a consultation online today.
What is a Pap smear?
A Pap smear is a diagnostic test that can identify early signs of cervical cancer. The test is a common part of a routine pelvic exam, and the goal of regular Pap smears is to pinpoint cancerous changes in the cervix as early as possible when treatment is most successful.
Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery can determine how often you need a Pap smear based on your age, risk factors, and general health. You can also expect a Pap smear as part of your initial pregnancy exam.
What’s involved in a Pap smear?
During a pelvic exam, your Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery provider collects a sample of cells from your cervix, which resides at the lower end of your uterus.
Your provider sends the sample of cells to a medical lab for analysis under a microscope. The results can show normal cells, existing cancer cells, or precancerous cell changes that can evolve into cervical cancer.
Following the swab of your cervix, you may experience some mild spotting or light bleeding, which resolves on its own without any treatment. Otherwise, you can return to your usual activities without the need for recovery.
How do I prepare for a Pap smear?
To ensure the results of your Pap smear are accurate, you should avoid sexual activity for two days before the test. You should also not use any douches, creams, or vaginal medicines.
If you have your period on the day of your Pap smear, it’s best to contact Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery to reschedule your appointment for another time.
What do the results of a Pap smear mean?
Normal results from a Pap smear mean that no abnormal cells are detected in your cervix. You won’t need an additional Pap smear until your next well-woman exam.
If your Pap smear results come back as abnormal, your Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery provider may recommend another Pap smear or other testing.
An abnormal Pap smear doesn’t mean you have cancer, as results may be affected by recent sexual activity or a vaginal or urinary tract infection. However, your provider can refer you for additional testing, such as a biopsy, or treatment with a specialist.
If you need to schedule a Pap smear, call the Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery office or book an appointment online today.