Freak out a bit?
Ive been moderately sexually active, kept up to date on Pap smears, and received the HPV vaccine.
I was terrified at first (Biopsy?
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), but the procedure was quick and mostly painless.
The cells are then examined for any abnormalities.
Pap smears can be uncomfortable, but in general they’re quick and relatively painless.
As an alternative, women aged 30 to 65 can have a combination Pap smear/HPV test every five years.
These cervical cell changes are referred to ascervical dysplasia, which can range in severity.
Low-grade cervical changes may just signal an HPV infection, says Dr. Franco.
For patients 35 or older with high-grade cells, a biopsy will be referred immediately.
Still, it ultimately comes down to what you and your doctor deem best for you.
It’s basically a little more involved Pap smear.
Basically you don’t want to irritate it before the procedure.
A lot of this also has to do with keeping yourself relaxed and comfortable for your appointment.
The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes and is usually done without anesthesia.
The colposcope is positioned 8 to 10 inches from the vagina with a bright light.
Your provider may use a vinegar solution or something similar that will help highlight any abnormal areas.
FYI: This solution might sting a bit for some people.
The ectocervix, or lower portion of the cervix, is where most tissue is examined for abnormal cells.
For many individuals, cramping may occur during the biopsy portion of the procedure, similar to menstrual cramping.
The cramping is typically only prevalent when the tissue is being removed with the forceps.
Once the tissue is taken, your doctor will put down the stirrups and you’ll get dressed.
A panty liner is suggested as you might have some vaginal bleeding or coffee-colored discharge.
Your doctor will probably recommend that you rest easy for a week or solisten to that advice.
These problems are uncommon but you will need to rule out an infection.
While youre waiting for the results, youll probably be anxious.
attempt to remain calm.
after you snag normal cells, you’re free to switch back to every three years.
For instance, between 1955 and 1992, cervical cancer incidence and death ratesdroppedmore than 60 percent.
But because it develops slowly, it is one of the most preventable types of cancer.
So, kindly, get regular Pap smears.
Knowledge, especially when it comes to your health, is power.
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