One of the best ways to maintain your health as time passes is with regular preventative care. If you wait until there is an issue, it may be too late. Here at Centro Medico Latino, we believe the best way for a woman to detect cervical cancer is with a Pap smear. You are invited to learn more about how this routine medical test can benefit you.
What is a Pap Smear?
A Pap Smear detects precancerous changes taking place within the cervix. These changes are treated easily and can significantly decrease the risks of cervical cancer. This test was created to detect precancerous changes in the cervix and cervical dysplasia. When the test detects abnormal cells, the doctor is able to determine what is causing the change and start the patient on the correct treatment before the condition becomes cancerous.
The Abnormal Pap Smear
When the test is abnormal, it means abnormal cells have been detected within the cervix. Depending on the kind of cells detected, your physician may want you to take another test in a matter of months.
A Pap smear usually takes place during a pelvic exam and the process is not painful. The individual is positioned on the exam table and a speculum device is inserted into the vagina. This widens the opening in the vaginal area to provide the physician with a clearer view of the cervix and the surrounding area. A cotton swab or brush is then used to swab the cervix and collect surface cells. The cells are analyzed to determine if there are any abnormal cells. It is important to understand this test is critical to the health of women of all ages. In many cases, the frequency of the Pap smear is determined by the physician.
Contact Us Today for More Information
If you are interested in learning more about the importance of Pap smears or need to have the procedure performed, please feel free to get started by reaching out and making an appointment with Centro Medico Latino! At our convenient locations in Charlotte and Monroe, our welcoming and knowledgeable team of professionals will be pleased to explain the process in greater detail and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to set up your consultation!
