Pap Smear

The Women's Center, PC

Gynecology & Urogynecologists located in Stockbridge, GA & Conyers, GA

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 The Women's Center, PC, in Stockbridge and Conyers, Georgia, 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 today at The Women's Center, PC, by calling the office nearest you or by requesting a consultation online now.

Pap Smear Q & A

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.

The Women's Center medical team 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 provider at The Women's Center 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 your Pap smear, it’s best to contact The Women's Center to reschedule your appointment for another time.

What do the results of a Pap smear mean?

Normal results from a Pap smear mean that there are no abnormal cells 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 provider at The Women's Center may recommend another Pap smear or other testing.

An abnormal Pap smear does not 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 Women's Center, PC, office nearest you today or request an appointment online now.

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