Pap smears are a vital part of any woman’s health routine in South Charleston, West Virginia. But because there are myths and misconceptions around them, many women avoid getting them altogether. And that is a big mistake. Pap smears are not only vital for detecting cervical cancer at its earliest stages but also for preventing it from ever happening in the first place. Read on to learn more about the common myths about this life-saving test. Seek help from a South Charleston pap smear expert first.
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Smear Tests are Painful
While some discomfort is associated with a smear test, it typically only causes slight pain and cramping. The discomfort usually lasts for just a few seconds, as the doctor inserts the speculum into your vagina to open it up and get access to your cervix. Once the speculum is in place, you should never feel any pain or discomfort.
Many women think the insertion of the speculum can cause damage to their cervix, but this is not true. Your cervix will already be fully opened and ready for the doctor to get access, so there is no risk of damage during a smear test.
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An Abnormal Smear Test Indicates a High Risk of Cancer
Many women are scared of getting a pap smear because they believe it will automatically mean they have cervical cancer, and there is nothing they can do to prevent it. But this, too, is an entirely false belief. An abnormal smear test does not necessarily indicate the presence of cancer – sometimes the cells need time to return to normal or can be due to an infection of some kind.
Even if you have had abnormal results in previous smear tests, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your next test will be the same. Most women with abnormal pap smears do not develop cervical cancer – so there is no reason for you to worry.
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They’re More Important for Older Women
Many women assume that they only need to have a pap smear if they are over 30. This isn’t the case, as it’s recommended that girls begin having regular smear tests from around 18. If you’re sexually active and your mother or sister has had cervical cancer, then you should start getting annual tests from the age of 25.
Many girls are scared to have a pap smear because they believe it will be uncomfortable. This is because young ladies often don’t have much sexual experience and therefore not much awareness about their bodies.
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The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine is an Alternative to Smear Tests
There is no vaccine against HPV – the only way to protect yourself from cervical cancer and other diseases caused by this virus is by advocating regular smear tests. There is currently no cure for HPV, which means there is always a potential risk of developing cervical cancer. So to be on the safe side, you should get regular pap smears even if you have been vaccinated against HPV.
It can be challenging to know when to get a pap smear and the best way to do it. This is especially when there are many misconceptions around it. Thus, understanding the most common myths associated with this procedure is important. Speaking with a pap smear expert is a good starting point.