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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.
A pelvic exam is an internal examination of the uterus, vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and rectum. What is a Pap test (also called Pap smear)? A Pap test is a microscopic examination of cells collected from the cervix using a cervical brush. The cells collected are used to detect changes that may be cancer or may lead to cancer, and to show noncancerous conditions, such as infection or inflammation.
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. 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:
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. 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. Samples of biopsies:
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 symptoms of cervical cancer may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Consult a physician for diagnosis. 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: For local calls, use phone number; 410-583-2750. For U.S. calls outside the local area, use phone number; 1-800-507-9952. For international calls, use the phone number; 01-410-955-5464.
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Webmaster: Emily Shaw of Illustrating Medicine
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