As always, they do a pap smear. But what are they actually looking for?
The pap smear looks for abnormalities in the cervical cells triggered by the sexually transmitted virus, HPV (Human Papilloma Virus).
This is because HPV may lead to cervical cancer.
REMEMBER:
1) All women who are or who have been sexually active, or who have reached age 21, should have an annual Pap smear.
2) A normal pap result means there were no abnormalities and you can wait another year for your next pap smear.
3) If the result of the pap smear is abnormal and you are diagnosed with high-risk HPV :
*Follow your doctor's advice in scheduling follow-up procedures and check-ups to ensure that any pre-cancerous or cancerous cells are caught right away.
*Be responsible sexually. You may transmit the disease to your partner(s).
Visit
http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/
stds-hiv-safer-sex/hpv-4272.htm
for more information about HPV and Cervical Cancer.
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