Annual Exams

Women who are sexually active should visit the OB/GYN within three years of becoming sexually active, or those who are 21 years old. Even young women who are not sexually active yet should visit the gynecologist by the age of 21. This is also a good time to discuss sexually transmitted diseases and contraceptives. Furthermore, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends yearly Pap smear testing yearly until the age of 30 if you have had three consecutive healthy Pap smears. After that, your gynecologist may suggest you visit every two or three years.

You should always see your OB/GYN if you are having these symptoms:

• Bleeding between periods
• Unusual or persistent vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pain or severe menstrual cramps
• Abnormal bleeding (at any time while not on your period)
• Bleeding after sexual intercourse

Any of these symptoms may indicate a vaginal infection or an STD, but may also be a sign of endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease or something else. However, if you think you are pregnant, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare doctor as soon as possible to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

What is a Pap smear?

A pap smear is a procedure where a sample of cells from a woman’s cervix is collected and spread on a microscopic slide and then examined to look for pre-malignant cancer changes. The procedure is simple, quick and relatively painless. In the majority of cases, a Pap smear identifies minor cellular abnormalities before they have a chance to become malignant and are easily treatable. However, the test is not intended to detect other forms of cancer such as those of the ovary, vagina, or the uterus. If these forms of cancer are present, they will usually be detected in the course of the gynecologic exam, which is generally conducted at the same time as the Pap smear.

Easy Tips for Better Pap Smear Results

The next time you schedule your Pap smear, try to make the appointment that is about two weeks after the first day of your period, and follow these simple guidelines to receive the most accurate results at your annual visit to the gynecologist:

1. Don't have sexual intercourse two days before your Pap smear
2. Don't use a vaginal douche during the three days before your Pap smear
3. Take showers instead of baths during the two days before your Pap smear
4. Vaginal creams, tampons, medications or contraceptive foams or jellies are not advised during the 48 hours preceeding your Pap smear