Cervical Cancer Screenings

The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2007 about 11,500 cases of Cervical Cancer will be diagnosed in the United States and about 3,670 women will die from the disease.

The good news is that cervical cancer can be caught early and early detection improves the odds of survival, and because Cervical Cancers usually show no symptoms it is important for women to have regular screenings.

There are several options for women concerned about cervical cancer.
Traditionally, Pap smear’s have been the standard test used to detect cervical cancer in women; however, in 2003 the Federal Drug Administration approved the HPV DNA test to be used in conjunction with a Pap smear to detect cervical cancer in women.

How the Test is Done

Both the Pap smear and the HPV DNA tests are done at the same time. Your doctor will collect cervical cells for both tests by gently rubbing a collection device across the surface of the cervix. The cells are then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Results

If both test are negative then your doctor may tell you to wait three years before getting screened again. Sooner if other risk factors such as family history or a weakened immune system are involved.

If one of the tests is positive for abnormal cells then your doctor may opt to have the test repeated within 6 to 12 months.

If both the pap smear and the HPV DNA test show abnormal cell growth your doctor may recommend more tests.

HPV and Sexual Transmission

Because the HPV virus can be sexually transmitted, a positive HPV DNA test can be troublesome. However, its estimated that 50 percent of sexually-active adults carry the HPV virus and its possible it could have been contracted many years prior to the test.

Colposcopy

In a colposcopy a doctor looks for lesions in the cervix using a special magnifying device called a colposcope. If a lesion is found, then the doctor can take a biopsy to determine if the lesion is cancerous.

Preparing for a Pap Test

The American Cancer Society recommends the following to women to ensure that their cervical cancer screening tests are as accurate as possible:
Try not to schedule an appointment for a time during your menstrual period.
Do not douche for 48 hours before the test.
Do not have sexual intercourse for 48 hours before the test.
Do not use tampons, birth control foams, jellies, or other vaginal creams or vaginal medications for 48 hours before the test.