Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. It can impact women of all ages. Nevertheless, one of the barriers to care is often fear or anxiety.

“In this country, we are fortunate to have women’s health screenings in place that allow us to identify cellular changes in their earliest stages, and intervene before cancer develops,” said JRMC Gynecologist & Obstetrician, Dr. Bailey Runkles.

Cervical screenings may feel embarrassing for about 45 minutes, Dr. Runkles said. But that 45 minutes is better than four to five years of cancer treatment.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention recommend women receive pap tests once they turn 21.

If you’ve never had one, a Pap test is when a gynecologist or primary care provider swabs a woman’s cervix. The provider will then send that sample to the lab for review. Pap tests don’t hurt, though a patient may feel a little pressure.

The provider may also check for human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the main risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV can also cause vaginal and vulvar cancers. In addition to HPV, smoking, chlamydia infection, overweight and family history are all risk factors for cervical cancer.

If you or someone you love is behind on cervical screenings, here are three reasons to schedule an appointment.

  1. “Vaginas are vaginas.” Gynecologists, nurse practitioners and registered nurses see the female body every day. Their focus is on a patient’s health. “Vaginas are vaginas,” Dr. Runkles said. “We all have them. Now, let’s keep them healthy.”
  2. Less frequent visits. Most women age 21 and over should receive pap tests every three years until age 30. At 30 years-of-age, women continue the three-year rotation of pap tests, as well as HPV tests every five years. Co-testing continues until 65, when they can forgo testing if they choose.
  3. No pain, no gain. Pap and HPV tests cause slight discomfort, but they can detect early signs of cervical changes. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment. Momentary discomfort can be lifesaving.

If a woman is not displaying symptoms, but she has abnormal cells, the doctor may suggest diagnostic testing.

“Most often this is an office-based biopsy,” said Dr. Runkles.

For pap tests, 3D mammograms or help with incontinence, hot flashes, infertility, contraception and high-risk pregnancy, schedule direct: (701) 952-4878.

 

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