What is the the cervix
and where is it located?
The cervix is the lower, narrow
part of the uterus (womb) located between the bladder and the rectum.
It forms a canal that opens into the vagina, which leads to the
outside of the body.
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What is a pelvic
exam?
A pelvic exam is an internal examination of the uterus, vagina,
ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and rectum.
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What is a Pap test
(also called Pap smear)?
A Pap test is a microscopic examination of cells collected from
the cervix, used to detect changes that may be cancer or may lead
to cancer, and to show noncancerous conditions, such as infection
or inflammation.
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Who performs pelvic
exams and Pap tests?
Pelvic exams and Pap tests are performed by
Obstetrician/Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) and other
healthcare providers. OB/GYNs are physicians
who specialize in general women's medical
care, diagnosis and treatment of disorders
of the female reproductive system, and care
of pregnant women.
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Why are pelvic exams and Pap tests suggested
to women?
A Pap test, along with a pelvic exam, is an important
part of a woman's routine health care because it may detect abnormalities
that can lead to invasive cancer. Most invasive cancers of the cervix
can be detected early if women have Pap tests and pelvic examinations
regularly. As with many types of cancer, cancer of the cervix is
more likely to be successfully treated if it is detected early.
But, the Pap test is not only useful in detecting
cancerous cells. It can detect other changes
in the cervix and vagina, including dysplasia,
or pre-cancer cells. Inflammation in the cervical
area may also be detected. Inflammation may
be caused by:
- yeast infections
- trichomoniasis infections
- bacteria
- other viruses
- medications or other chemicals
- hormones
- pregnancy
- miscarriage (or abortion)
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Who should have
pelvic exams and Pap tests?
Women who are or have been sexually active, or
have reached age 18, should have Pap tests and physical (and pelvic)
examinations regularly.
Generally, there is no upper age at which Pap tests cease to be
effective. Older women should continue to have regular physical
examinations, including pelvic exams and Pap tests.
Women who have had a hysterectomy should consult their physicians
about whether or not to continue having regular Pap tests.
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What
if there are abnormal test results?
When the Pap test shows an ambiguous or minor abnormality, the
test is usually repeated to ensure accuracy.
If the test shows a significant abnormality, a colposcopy
may be performed (using an instrument called a colposcope) to examine
the vagina and the cervix.
A Schiller test may also be performed, in which
the cervix is coated with an iodine solution.
A biopsy may be performed in which the physician
removes a small amount of cervical tissue for examination by a pathologist.
This is the only sure way to determine whether the abnormal cells
indicate cancer.
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What
are the symptoms of cervical cancer?
Symptoms of cervical cancer usually do not appear until abnormal
cervical cells become cancerous and invade nearby tissue.
- The most common symptom is abnormal bleeding, which may:
- start and stop between regular menstrual periods.
- occur after sexual intercourse, douching, or a pelvic exam.
- Other symptoms may include:
- heavier menstrual bleeding, which may last longer than usual
- bleeding after menopause
- increased vaginal discharge
- pain during intercourse
The symptoms of cervical cancer may resemble other conditions
or medical problems. Consult a physician for diagnosis.
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How
do I make an appointment for a pelvic exam and/or Pap test?
To make an appointment for a pelvic exam and/or
Pap test at our Baltimore area location, call
410-583-2750. Call 1-443-287-0528 for U.S. calls
outside the Baltimore area, and 01-410-955-8032
for international calls.
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