The compassionate staff at Planned Parenthood are experts in women's health care. We provide essential reproductive and sexual health services like pelvic exams, Pap tests, cancer screenings, and testing and treatment for vaginal infections.
How often should you get a Pap smear 2020?
Doctors generally recommend repeating Pap testing every three years for women ages 21 to 65. Women age 30 and older can consider Pap testing every five years if the procedure is combined with testing for HPV. Or they might consider HPV testing instead of the Pap test.25 Jun 2020
Do I need a Pap smear every 3 years?
Women should start Pap smear screening at age 21. Between the ages of 21-29, women whose Pap smears are normal only need it repeated every three years. Women ages 30 and over should have testing for the human papillomavirus (HPV) with their Pap smear. Most women clear it once they are in their 30s.
Is it necessary to have a Pap smear every year?
“Women shouldn't confuse the Pap smear with their annual exam,” Sulak said. “A Pap smear is part of the annual. In fact, most gynecologists recommend having a Pap smear every three years if their patients' previous tests were normal.”15 Aug 2016
Is Planned Parenthood a gynecologist?
At Planned Parenthood health centers, gynecologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other licensed medical professionals provide high-quality, affordable care. All of our health care staff are highly-trained and experienced in working with people of all ages and genders.
What services does Planned Parenthood really provide?
The essential health care services Planned Parenthood provides, like: STD testing and treatment, birth control, well-woman exams, cancer screening and prevention, abortion, hormone therapy, infertility services, and general health care.
Are Planned Parenthood real doctors?
Do real doctors and nurses work at Planned Parenthood health centers? Yes! The staff at Planned Parenthood health centers are trained and licensed medical professionals, just like you would find at any other doctor's office.
How do I prepare for my Pap smear appointment?
- Avoid intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal medicines or spermicidal foams, creams or jellies for two days before having a Pap smear, as these may wash away or obscure abnormal cells.
- Try not to schedule a Pap smear during your menstrual period.
What should I expect at my Pap smear appointment?
The pap smear uses a small brush to collect cells from the cervix. You may not feel this part at all, or you may feel some mild pinching. Your doctor may also collect other painless swabs for STD testing. Bi-manual exam: After the speculum exam, the doctor will remove the speculum and do a bi-manual exam.28 Jan 2021