Having cervical cancer screening exams with the Papanicolaou test also know as a “Pap smear” has become such a routine part of some women’s lives that the significance of this screening is often forgotten. For those women that do not obtain this screening the incidence of cervical cancer increases. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 10,520 cases of invasive cervical cancer will be diagnosed this year in the United States.
Risk factors for cervical cancer include contact with the human papilloma virus, sexual intercourse at an early age, multiple sexual partners, HIV- infection, and smoking. Prevention strategies include not smoking, the use of condoms, and minimizing high-risk sexual behaviors. Symptoms of cervical cancer include abnormal bleeding, spotting, and abnormal vaginal discharge.
The Pap smear is a simple office procedure in which cells are collected from the cervix and endocervix to check for precancerous or cancerous changes. A woman can increase the accuracy of the test by not scheduling the test during her menstrual cycle. A woman should also refrain from douching, intercourse, using tampons, and vaginal medications for 48 hours before the test.
The Bethesda System is the most widely used system to describe the results to the physician. The categories used in this system assist the physician in recommending the optimum course of treatment. Follow-up is the necessary element for any recommended course of treatment to lower the risk of cervical cancer
A key component in health care is the relationship a woman has with her physician. This relationship needs to be one of good communication and trust.
For more information or an appointment contact Dr. David Ahdoot at 661-222-7822 or visit the office located 23861 McBean Parkway, Suite C-6 in Valencia.