Pap Smear in Chula Vista, CA
What is a Pap Smear?
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.
Dr. Kamali is a board-certified OBGYN with extensive experience providing gynecologic care to women throughout the Chula Vista area. During your exam, Dr. Kamali will take the time to address any health concerns you may have and answer any questions. To schedule your annual pap test at our gynecology office in Chula Vista, CA, please call (619) 271-2700 or request an appointment online.
Does Every Woman Need a Pap Smear?
It is advised for women to begin receiving regular Pap smears starting at 21 years of age. These tests usually occur every 3 years, but some individuals will likely be asked to perform Pap smears more often based on certain risk factors such as:
- A prior diagnosis of cervical cancer or a related precancerous condition of the cervix
- Confirmed cases of an HIV infection
- Those with a weakened immune system, usually due to chemotherapy, frequent use of corticosteroids, or an organ transplant
- A history of smoking
Some women also prefer to complete Pap smears more often than every 3 years for reassurance regarding their health, though this is not necessary. It will be your responsibility to communicate to your OBGYN about what is best for you moving forward with Pap smear testing.
There are a few situations in which regular Pap smears will no longer be recommended for certain women. These cases include women who have undergone a hysterectomy that was performed for a noncancerous condition, as well as women who are over the age of 65.
Women within this older age range are usually exempt from Pap smears if they have received them regularly throughout their lifetime and have never had one of these tests come back with positive results for cancer. However, you should absolutely discuss other potential risk factors with Dr. Kamali before suddenly stopping your recommended Pap smears.
How Does a Pap Smear Work?
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 OBGYN’s office. It will begin by laying down on your back with your feet rested in stirrups. Once in position, your OBGYN will use a speculum to open the vaginal walls and insert a spatula to gather cells from the cervix.
After a sample has been collected, these cells are taken to a lab to be reviewed for signs of cancerous activity. It typically takes a couple of days to determine the results of the Pap smear, but the exact time frame will vary.
Schedule Your Annual Gynecology Exam in Chula Vista, CA Today!
Dr. Ray P. Kamali is a board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to women throughout San Diego and southern San Diego regions. Dr. Kamali has extensive experience performing pap smears and can provide accurate testing and treatment for gynecologic cancer. To schedule a consultation at our gynecology clinic in Chula Vista, please call (619) 271-2700 or request an appointment through our secure online form.