pap smear - every year?

Re: pap smear - every year?

• ssinca

  February 2011

  I asked if I needed it yearly and my doc at the time said yes.  I've only had one abnormal one and it was like 11 years ago.  

  so I guess it depends on your doc. 

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• Nessia

  February 2011

  I always thought you had to do them every year. I also learned that my GP will do them too. I went in for an annual check-up and she asked if I need a pap so I said sure, it'll save me a doctors visit.
  

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• abh1977

  February 2011

  "They" now recommend them every 2 years for most women - though this may be past a certain age, I'm not sure.  For my age group (we won't discuss what that is) it changed a few years ago from every year to every 2 years as long as they are normal.  I've been told this by a midwife and an OBGYN (different practices).

  
  "There is a fine line between a princess and a witch...thinking you're one does NOT give you the right to act like the other." my grandmother

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• Taytee

  February 2011

  "They" changed the standards but I think it's crap. They say women don't need their first pap until age 21. HELLFREAKINGO. Do you know how many sexually active 13 year olds there are??

  This is a very slanted article but I don't mind

  https://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art68454.aspt

  I think one of the most important things to point out is "Moreover, if you are in a monogamous relationship, you are not safe either. First off, most people are not forthcoming about their infidelity" I consented to full STD testing with both of my pregnancies. No amount of faith or trust would ever allow me to possibly endanger the life of my unborn child. As you can guess working in the ER, I've seen and heard it all.

  Soooo - if you want to go buy the new rules, every 3 years should be fine. I however will continue to get annual ones, occasionally requesting additional testing (like STD's). No, the pap smear does not uncover or look for them usually.

   

  

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• shanwalk2 member

  February 2011

  I will continue to go every year.  I found a lump in my breast at 21 years old that ended up making me anxious and stressed for years following it.  Obviously, I'm diligent about my own exams... but having a doctor re-conform at my annual puts my mind at ease.  Also, I just don't see how additional exams could be of harm.  It's not exactly a comfortable appt.  - but it seems like, for me, my heath is worth taking the time to go annually.  

  
  "The House We Built."
  A journey of building the dream.
  

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