Pap Smear in Chicago, IL

A Pap smear or Pap test is a routine procedure used to screen women for cervical cancer. The whole examination is quite simple, as it only requires a swab of cells from the woman’s cervix for testing.

The gynecologists at Lake Shore Obstetrics & Gynecology have extensive experience with routine women’s care and testing. Our providers offer pap smears for the early detection of abnormal cell changes in women. If you notice any unusual changes or would like to schedule your routine testing, please call (312) 943-3300 and schedule your visit at our gynecology offices in Hinsdale and Chicago, IL.

What Does a Pap Smear Test?

To better understand why it’s not necessary to have an annual pap smear, it’s important to know exactly what the doctor is looking for during the exam. A pap test checks the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, for abnormal cell changes. Cells can change and, if they aren’t detected and treated, it can lead to cervical cancer.

Is a Yearly Pelvic Exam or Pap Smear Still Necessary?

Women no longer need to dread their annual pelvic exam! According to the American College of Physicians, a pelvic exam and a pap smear aren’t necessary to have every year.

If pap smears can help detect cancer, why are physicians finding that they aren’t necessary to have annually? Here are a few reasons annual pelvic exams and pap smears aren’t required every year:

There really is not much that goes into preparing for a Pap smear, though it is advised to avoid scheduling your test during your menstrual cycle, in addition to avoiding having intercourse or using any substances that may enter the vagina (jellies, douches, etc.). All of these activities are best to refrain from because they may alter the cells of the cervix, which could lead to incorrect Pap smear results.

The entire procedure will take place in your doctor’s office. It will begin by laying down on your back with your feet rested in stirrups. Once in position, your physician will use a speculum to open the vaginal walls and insert a spatula to gather cells from the cervix.

• There are too many false positives – Frequent screening leads to more frequent need for follow up tests that can be invasive and have unwanted side effects, including problems related to future pregnancies and delivery, as well as increased anxiety and time away from work or home.
• Screening every three years is perfectly safe – Studies show that screening every three years is adequate for early detection.
• Women are getting pap smears too young – Women under the age of 21 shouldn’t be getting a pap smear because it increases the odds of false positives even more. At the age of 21, women should get their first pap smear and talk to their physician about what they suggest about pelvic exams in the future.

New Recommendations for Pap Smears

Here are the recommendations for women who are at an average risk for cervical cancer:

• Under the age of 21: No pap smear necessary
• 21 to 29: Pap smear required once every three years
• 30 to 65: Pap smear required every three years or a combination of a Pap smear and HPV test every five years.
• More than 65: No pap smear necessary if all recent screenings have been normal

Please note that it’s still important to see your OBGYN more than once every three years for proper preventive care and for questions about women’s health.