A Brown Girl’s Guide to Pap Smears
Pap smears are an important screening test for cervical cancer and it’s important for women to get them regularly. However, many south asian women may have concerns or questions about the procedure. We at Brown Women Health want to dispel any misconceptions and provide a comprehensive guide to help you understand the importance of pap smears and ease any fears you may have.
Note, that we answer all these questions AND MUCH MORE in our podcast with OBGYN, Dr. Vaidehi Mujumdar:
Common FAQs about Pap Smears
Q: What is a pap smear and why is it important?
A: A pap smear, also known as a pap test, is a routine screening test for cervical cancer. It involves taking a sample of cells from the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina) to check for any abnormal or precancerous changes. It’s important to get regular pap smears because cervical cancer can often be asymptomatic in its early stages, meaning there may not be any obvious signs or symptoms. By catching and treating any abnormal cells early, we can greatly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
Q: What should I expect during the test?
A: The healthcare provider will insert a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. Then, they will use a small brush to collect cells from your cervix. The cells will be sent to a lab for analysis.
Q: What happens after the test?
A: After the test, you may experience some mild cramping or a feeling of pressure. This should go away within a day or two. You will receive your test results within a few weeks.
Q: Will it be painful?
A: No, a pap smear is not usually painful. Some women may feel a slight discomfort or pressure during the test, but it should not be painful.
Q: Will I need to undress completely?
A: No, you will only need to undress from the waist down and cover yourself with a drape during the test.
Q: What should I do before the test?
A: Avoid sexual intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal creams, powders or other products for 2 days before the test. It’s also best to schedule your pap smear for a time when you’re not menstruating, as menstrual blood can make it more difficult to collect an accurate sample.
Q: I’m not married, is it still necessary for me to get a pap smear?
A: Absolutely. Cervical cancer can occur in women of any sexual activity, and it’s important to start getting regular pap smears at age 21 or within 3 years of becoming sexually active, whichever comes first. It’s also important to note that cervical cancer is not caused by sexual activity, it’s caused by a virus called HPV which can be contracted through skin-to-skin contact.
Q: Does a pap smear mean I lose my virginity?
A: No, a pap smear is a medical test and does not affect virginity in any way. Virginity is a cultural or personal concept, not a medical one.
Q: How often do I need to get a pap smear?
A: The frequency of pap smears can vary depending on your individual risk factors and test results. In general, it’s recommended to start getting pap smears at age 21 or within 3 years of becoming sexually active, whichever comes first. For women under 30, it’s typically recommended to get a pap smear every 3 years. Women over 30 may be able to extend the interval to every 5 years if they also test negative for HPV.
Q: I’m scared of what the results might say. What if it’s cancer?
A: It’s normal to feel nervous or scared about the results, but it’s important to remember that cervical cancer is highly preventable and treatable when caught early. Most pap smear results are normal, and if abnormal cells are found, they can usually be treated with a simple procedure.
Q: What should I do if my pap smear results are abnormal?
A: If your pap smear results are abnormal, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further testing or procedures, such as a colposcopy or biopsy, to determine the cause of the abnormal cells. It is important to note that abnormal pap smear results do not necessarily mean that you have cancer, but they do indicate that there may be abnormal cell growth that needs to be monitored or treated. It is also important to maintain regular pap smear screenings, as well as practice safe sex and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk of abnormal cells. If you have any concerns or questions about your results, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Listen to our Podcast
Make sure to listen to our podcast episode with Dr. Vaidehi Mujumdar for more information on pap smears and other important women’s health topics.
