Why PAP smears?

Why PAP smears are important for Women’s Health?

Cervical cancer continues to be a serious condition affecting about 13 in 100,000 individuals. At Intermountain Medical Clinic in Pocatello, Idaho, we know that setting up an appointment for a Pap smear is one of the simplest ways to reduce that risk. While screening for cervical cancer is becoming more accessible, it remains one of the most dreaded procedures by women… the PAP smear!

How a Pap Smear Screening Works

PAP smears and HPV testing are the primary means of screening for cervical cancer. When a PAP smear is completed, cells are collected from the transformation zone of the cervix. The transformation zone is where the cell types change and where precancerous changes of the cervix occur. They involve the collection of cervical transformation-zone cells with a “brush,” “broom,” or “spatula.” If HPV testing is indicated, this involves identifying the DNA of this virus in the sample.

To obtain a PAP smear, the clinician will perform a pelvic exam, which involves inserting a speculum. This will allow them to visualize the cervix as well as the vagina to look for any abnormalities. Once the cervix has been examined, the clinician will collect the cells for the PAP smear for analysis. This typically does not cause too much discomfort, but can cause cramping in some patients.

Updated Pap Smear Guidelines for Women

The USPSTF (United States Preventive Services Task Force) and ACOG (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology) have updated the Pap smear guidelines. PAP smears should be initiated at age 21 for average-risk individuals. The PAP smear in this age group is completed with cytology, looking at the cells under the microscope and classifying them accordingly. This continues until age 29. Once the patient reaches 30 years old, there are multiple accepted options regarding screening. You can continue to do cytology every 3 years. Alternatively, there are HPV tests that are FDA-approved that could be considered every 5 years. The last option is co-testing, which involves both cytology and HPV testing, also every 5 years. Generally, it is recommended to stop screening at age 65 if there has not been any history of abnormal PAPs.

Even if you are not due for a PAP, it can be helpful to still have a pelvic examination. Clinicians may be able to identify other issues such as dermatologic conditions, vaginal infections, ovarian cysts, and more. These simple screening measures can help to prevent cervical cancer and support overall women’s health here in Pocatello.