Routine Pap Smears in Lawrence, KS

A common part of most yearly well-woman exams is a Pap smear, a routine procedure that aims to detect abnormal cell growth in the cervix. If an abnormal growth is found, this could be an indication of cancer, which should be treated immediately to preserve your overall health. Our team at Lawrence Family Practice Center recommends beginning Pap testing around the age of 21. To schedule your well-woman exam and make sure that your total health is in optimal condition, contact our family facility in Lawrence, KS.

Regular pap smears in Lawrence, KS at Lawrence Family Practice Center are a crucial part of maintaining your sexual health and overall well-being, with benefits that include:

• Identifies abnormalities and changes in cervical cells
• Helps to provide earlier diagnosis of cervical cancer
• Determines future cervical cancer risks
• Helps to achieve better treatment outcomes
• Reduces likelihood of cancer spreading
• Procedure is quick and easy
• Provides peace of mind

Women between the ages of 21 and 65 should receive regular Pap smears. Generally, women in that age bracket should get Pap smears once every three years. However, you may be asked by the team at Lawrence Family Practice Center to have a Pap smear at more frequent intervals if you have had cervical cancer, precancerous cells discovered during a previous Pap smear, a weakened immune system, HIV, a history of smoking, or were exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth. Women who have undergone a total hysterectomy or are over 65 typically do not have to get regular Pap smears any longer.

A routine Pap smear is performed here at our Lawrence, KS office, typically during a quick visit. Once you're comfortable, a member of our team will ask you to lie back with your heels supported by stirrups. We will then delicately place a fine medical instrument (speculum) into the vagina, giving our physician a closer look at your cervix. From there, cells can be extracted from the cervix to be assessed for any abnormalities.

After a routine Pap smear, you may experience mild discomfort, spotting, or light cramping for a day or two. These symptoms are typically short-lived and manageable. It is important to avoid douching, using tampons, or having intercourse for a short period, as advised by our team at Lawrence Family Practice Center. Results are usually available within a few days to a week, and we will contact you to discuss the findings and any necessary follow-up. Regular Pap smears are crucial for monitoring cervical health and detecting any abnormalities early.

Does a routine pap smear hurt?

Some women may find a pap smear uncomfortable, but it isn’t painful.

How long does it take to get the results of a pap smear?

Most pap smear results will be returned from the lab within 1 – 3 weeks.

How often should you have a routine pap smear?

Women should get a pap smear once a year as a part of their annual well-woman exam.

Can pap smears detect cancer?

While a pap smear can detect abnormalities, it cannot detect cancer. More sensitive specific testing will need to be done to detect cervical cancer.

Preserving your sexual and reproductive health is imperative for your total wellness. At Lawrence Family Practice Center, our team takes a comprehensive approach to women's health to fully understand your concerns and determine the best course of action. To get in touch with our team and set up an appointment, give our office in Lawrence, KS a call.