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Pap Smears Specialist

Ganesh OBGYN Our Services Pap Smears

Ganesh OBGYN

OBGYNs located in Boynton Beach, FL

Cervical cancer was once the leading cause of cancer death in women. However, since Pap smears became a regular part of the well-woman exam, cervical cancer is no longer a leading cause of cancer death in women. At Ganesh OBGYN, in Boynton Beach, Florida, Selva Ganesh, MD, FACOG, and Dervi Ganesh-Baluyot, MD, FACOG, specialize in women’s health and provide Pap smears. Schedule your Pap smear by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.

Pap Smears Q&A

What are Pap smears?

A Pap smear is a test that screens for cervical cancer. During the test, your provider at Ganesh OBGYN collects a sample of cells from your cervix and sends them to a pathology lab for an evaluation. 

Finding cervical cancer during the early stages increases your chances of a full recovery. A Pap smear can also identify changes in your cervical cells that may indicate you’re at risk of developing cervical cancer in the future.  

When do I need Pap smears?

Your provider at Ganesh OBGYN determines when you need a Pap smear. Most women start Pap smears at age 21 and then repeat the test every three years until age 29.

After age 30, your provider at Ganesh OBGYN may include the human papillomavirus (HPV) test along with your Pap smear. HPV is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD). Some strains of HPV increase a woman’s risk of developing cervical cancer. 

If your Pap smear and HPV test are negative, you only need to repeat the cervical cancer screening every five years. Women continue Pap smears until they reach age 65. 

Though some women may be able to go three to five years without a Pap smear, your provider at Ganesh OBGYN may recommend more frequent screenings if you have:

  • A family history of cervical cancer
  • A personal history of an abnormal Pap smear
  • A personal history of cervical cancer
  • HIV
  • A weakened immune system

Your gynecologist may also recommend more frequent Pap smears if you smoke tobacco products or have a history of smoking.

Do Pap smears hurt?

You may feel some pressure during a Pap smear, but no pain. Your provider completes your Pap smear during a pelvic exam. 

While you lie back on the exam table with your knees bent and legs spread, your provider inserts a speculum into your vagina. The speculum separates the vaginal walls, allowing for easier access to the cervix.

Your provider uses a soft brush and spatula to scrape cervical cells from your cervix and then places those cells in a test tube they send to the lab.

You can resume your usual activities after a Pap smear.

How long does it take to get results from Pap smears?

Ganesh OBGYN provides information about when you can expect your Pap smear results at the time of your screening. Once your results are in, the office gives you a call.

To schedule your Pap smear, call Ganesh OBGYN or book an appointment online today.

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