By Darlene Abramajtis, WHNP
It is easier to stop a disease before it starts than to treat it later. That is why it is very important for women to get regular Pap tests and pelvic exams. Even though you do not need a Pap test every year, you should still have a pelvic exam once a year at your check-up.
A pelvic exam helps your doctor look for problems in the pelvic area. This can include pain, swelling, or large cysts on the ovaries. If you are a woman and have missed your Pap test or yearly visit, you should make an appointment by calling 970.625.1100. The Women’s Health team at Grand River Health are here to help and are happy to see you.
Pap tests are important because they check the cells of the cervix for changes. These changes can sometimes lead to cancer. Women should start getting Pap tests at age 21.
- Women ages 21 to 30 should have a Pap test every 3 years.
- Women ages 30 to 65 should have a Pap test and an HPV test every 5 years.
These timelines are for women whose test results are normal. If you have an abnormal result, your provider will tell you when to come back for your next test. You may need more testing if something unusual is found.
HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It is a virus spread through sexual contact and causes most cervical cancers. You can help prevent HPV by using condoms and getting the HPV vaccine.
The HPV vaccine is approved for both men and women up to age 45. It is best to start the vaccine between ages 9 and 12, before becoming sexually active.
- If you get the vaccine before age 15, you need 2 doses.
- If you get it after age 15, you need 3 doses.
The HPV vaccine can help prevent cancers of the cervix, vulva, anus, mouth, and throat.
