Pap Smears

• Pap smear screening
• STD testing
• HPV testing

Cervical cancer is a preventable cancer and yet thousands of women are diagnosed with it and many of those women die every year. The majority of cervical cancers are caused by certain strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). During a pap smear, a brush is used to take cells from the cervix. Those cells are then checked for cancer cells or for abnormalities that increase your risk for cervical cancer in the future.

Early detection of cervical cancer increases the chance for a cure for that cancer. A pap smear is the best chance you have of finding abnormal cervical cells early, when procedures may be performed to prevent the cells from turning in to a cancer. During a pap smear, if abnormal cells are discovered, a test will be performed to determine whether you have the HPV strains that increase your risk of developing cervical cancer. Although an immunization has been developed that has shown evidence that cervical cancer can be prevented, keeping your pap smears up to date gives you the greatest chance of preventing cervical cancer.

During your pap smear, we will partner with you to discuss your sexual health, risks for STDs, treat an STD if you have one and counsel you regarding pap smears and cervical cancer. In addition, depending on your age, we will refer you for a mammogram to assist in the detection of breast cancer.

We look forward to partnering with you in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing illnesses.