Pap Smear

What is a Pap Smear?

A Pap (Papanicolaou) smear is a screening test administered as an easy way to check the cervix for abnormal cell changes. It detects early changes in the cells of the cervix.
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb) which opens into the vagina (birth canal).
If you have regular Pap smears, these cell changes can be detected and treated early.

WHY DO I NEED A PAP SMEAR?

Doing a Pap smear can save your life. It can detect abnormal cervical cells before they turn into cancer cells, and with subsequent treatment cervical cancer can be prevented. It can also detect the early stages of cervical cancer and, if treated, the patient has a better chance of being cured.

Stages  of Cervical Changes
Source: Cancerologia Medicina Van Guardia

WHO NEEDS TO DO THE TEST ?

All women 18 years and older who have ever had sex should have a Pap smear done.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO GET A PAP SMEAR?

If you are 25-54 years old and have had two normal Pap smear results in a row, you should continue to do the test every three years up to age 65.

If you are over 65 years old, ask your doctor if you can stop having a Pap smear.


HOW DO I PREPARE FOR IT ?

Source: Dysfunctionalrequirements.com

To make the Pap smear as accurate as possible, it is recommended that for two days before the test you avoid:

• Douching

• Using tampons

• Using vaginal creams, suppositories, medicines, vaginal deodorant sprays or powders, and

• Having sex.





HOW IS A PAP SMEAR DONE?

A doctor or nurse can do a Pap smear during a pelvic examination. It is a quick and simple test. While you lie on the examination table, the doctor or nurse puts an instrument called a speculum into your vagina, opening it to see the cervix. Cells are gently wiped with a soft brush or spatula from around the tiny opening in the cervix.

The sample is sent to a lab where it is examined under a microscope to see if any abnormal cells are present.

Source: Jamaica National Cancer Society

DOES THE TEST HURT?

It may be a little uncomfortable but it should not be painful.




WHEN DO I GET THE RESULTS?

When you have the test done, you will be told how, where and approximately when you will get the results. Before you leave the doctor’s office or health centre discuss this with your healthcare provider.

WHAT IF THE RESULT IS ABNORMAL?

An abnormal Pap smear result means that changes were found on your cervix. This usually does not mean you have cervical cancer.

Some abnormal cells will turn into cancer, but sometimes these unhealthy (abnormal) cells will go away on their own. If you have an abnormal result, talk with your doctor or nurse.

IS A PAP SMEAR THE SAME AS A PELVIC EXAM?

No, although a Pap smear may be done as part of a pelvic exam. During a pelvic exam, the nurse or doctor will examine the reproductive organs (cervix, uterus, vagina, ovaries, and fallopian tubes) for any abnormalities.

WHERE DO I GO TO HAVE A PAP SMEAR?

You can book your appointment today at The Obstetrics and Gynaecology Centre or you can go to your nearest Health Centre.


Source: The Jamaica Cancer Society

Fibroids

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop inside the womb. They can range from very small in size to large obstructing growths. They are very common in the black population and may lead to problems with low blood count, getting pregnant and heavy bleeding after delivery of a baby.

Multiple fibroids removed at surgery

What causes Uterine Fibroids?

The exact cause is unknown. However there is a link between the hormones estrogen and progesterone and the growth of fibroids.

Uterus with Fibroids at Surgery

What are some of the symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?

Some persons find out that they have fibroids incidentally - when doing a routine ultrasound examination. Other persons may experience:

Heavy bleeding or painful periods

Bleeding between periods

Pressure, pain, or fullness in your lower stomach

Enlarged abdomen or uterus

Constipation

Needing to pee often or trouble emptying your bladder

Pain during sex

Miscarriages or infertility

Multiple Fibroids Removed at Surgery

What are the treatment options for uterine fibroids?

Fibroids Removed at Surgery

• In women near menopause, 'watchful waiting' can be done. Fibroids are noted to shrink during menopause and the symptoms subside.
• Heavy bleeding may be treated with medication such as NSAIDS (Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) , birth control pills, hormonal injections or an intra-uterine device (that releases hormones inside your womb).
• Surgical removal of the fibroids, also known as myomectomy may improve symptoms and chances of having a baby
• Surgical removal of the uterus (womb) removes the symptoms completely and is the only method that prevents the fibroids from growing back (except in menopause). However removing the uterus means that there is no chance of having a baby. 

  

  Large Uterine Fibroid Seen at Surgery

Do you have uterine fibroids? Find out more and book your appointment for consultation at : The Obstetrics and Gynaecology Centre