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An annual gynecological visit is critical to preventative care. Depending on age and medical history, part of the annual well-woman visit may include a procedure known as a Pap smear. A Pap smear tests for abnormal cervical cells which may be due to inflammation or a precancerous condition of the cervix.

Who Needs a Colposcopy?

If a woman receives an abnormal pap smear, the next step may be a colposcopy. A colposcopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to biopsy suspicious tissue.

Receiving an abnormal test result can be a scary experience. Cherokee Women’s Health can ease any woman’s mind with the new, state-of-the-art colposcopy exam. The DySISmap Advanced Cervical Imaging System is a revolutionary technology that measures abnormal areas of the cervix.

With Emory and Grady Memorial Hospital, Fourth in the State of Georgia

Cherokee Women’s Health is the first practice in north Georgia, and only the fourth in the state, to offer this highly sensitive colposcopy technology to women in the community.  We’re proud to bring our patients access to this ground-breaking technology, currently available only in powerhouse healthcare systems including Emory Hospital and Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta.

What is the DySISmap?

Unlike a standard colposcopy, the DySISmap offers a color-coded digital map of the acetowhitening process which details abnormal areas of the cervix. The color-coding highlights any cervical abnormality from weak to strong areas of concern, and tells the doctor exactly where to biopsy to test for cancer or precancerous cells.

This precision in detecting any inflammation or precancerous conditions early allows doctors to treat the cervix before the cancer spreads to other areas of the body.

With the DySIS system, patients may choose to watch the scan as the doctor performs it, and the DySIS allows the doctor to store images captured from the scan. By storing these images, later scans can compare cervical changes over time.

We’re Here for You

Contact Cherokee Women’s Health with any questions related to cervical health or to learn more about the DySIS Advanced Cervical Imaging System, a new technology which can put your mind at ease.

What is a Pap test?
How is the Pap test done?
Who should have a Pap test and how often?
When can I stop having Pap tests?
What happens if a Pap test result is abnormal?
Is the Pap test result always accurate?

What is a Pap test?

A Pap test (sometimes called a Pap smear or cervical cytology screening) is a simple test that can detect abnormal cervical cells that may be precancerous or cancerous.

A Pap test is not the same thing as a pelvic exam. A Pap test allows for the early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of abnormal cells.

How is the Pap test done?

A Pap test is very simple and is done quickly (less than a minute).

What to expect during a Pap test:

• The patient will lie on the exam table, and a speculum will be used to open the vagina. This device allows a clear view of the upper vagina and cervix.
• A small number of cells are removed from the cervix with a brush or similar tool, put into a liquid, and sent to a lab to be examined under a microscope, which will be examined for any abnormal cells.

Who should have a Pap test and how often?

At age 21, you should begin having a Pap test.

How often you continue to have them done depends on your age and health history:

• Women younger than 30 should have a test every 2 years.
• Women 30 years and older should have a test every 2 years.
• After 3 normal test results in a row, women 30 and older may switch to having a test done every 3 years if:
  • She does not have a history of moderate or severe dysplasia
  • Her immune system is not weakened
  • She is not infected with HIV
  • Was not exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth.

When can I stop having a Pap test?

There is not a clear answer for when a woman can stop having a Pap test. Some experts recommend that a woman who is 65-70 can stop having a Pap test after three normal results in a row within the last 10 years. If you have certain risk factors, you should continue to routine Pap test.

Risk factors include:

• Being sexually active
• Having had multiple partners
• A previous history of abnormal Pap test results.

What happens if a Pap test result is abnormal?

If you receive an abnormal Pap test result, you will receive additional testing including:

• A repeat Pap test in 6 or 12 months
• A test for human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Or a more detailed examination called a colposcopy.

If results of the follow-up test indicate precancerous changes, you may need treatment to remove the abnormal cells.

Is the Pap test result always accurate?

Pap test results are not always accurate, as is the case with any lab test. Sometimes the results show abnormal cells when the cells are actually normal. This is called a “false-positive” result.

On the other hand, sometimes a Pap test may not detect any abnormal cells when they are present. This is called a “false-negative” result.

Many factors can cause false results such as:

• The sample may contain too few cells
• There may not be enough abnormal cells to study
• An infection or blood may hide abnormal cells
• Douching or vaginal medications may wash away or dilute abnormal cells.

Your health care professional may suggest a repeat Pap test to re-check the results.

It’s a common misconception that women don’t need an annual checkup from their gynecologist each year. In fact, women do need an annual checkup each year, especially for a pelvic exam and breast exam. Cherokee Women’s Health sheds some light on the difference between a pap smear and a pelvic exam and why they’re so important to maintaining your overall health.

Pelvic Exam vs. Pap Smear

A pap smear and a pelvic exam are not the same thing. A pap smear is a brushing of cells from the cervix, or opening of the uterus. These cells are evaluated by a laboratory to look for signs of precancerous diseases of the cervix, which if successfully treated, can prevent cervical cancer. Sexually transmitted diseases can also be diagnosed and treated through information gained from a pap smear. Pap smears do not test for uterine or ovarian cancer.

A pelvic exam usually occurs after a pap smear at your annual checkup. This is when your physician or advanced practice provider examines the skin of the vulva, vagina and cervix, looking for any suspicious lesions, which could indicate skin cancer or vulvar diseases. He or she will also perform a bi-manual exam using their hands to feel the pelvic organs and check for masses or inconsistencies. During this process, your doctor will gently place two fingers inside the vagina and use the other hand to gently press down on the area he or she is feeling. In doing this, your doctor is noting if the organs have changed in size or shape, and it allows them to feel the uterus, the ovaries, the bladder and the rectum. If your doctor determines that your uterus or other organs feel enlarged, he or she may order an ultrasound to check for fibroids, cysts, or other inconsistencies.

Do I Need a Pap Smear Every Year?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggest that certain women do not require a pap smear every year. If you are over the age of 30, in a mutually monogamous relationship and have never had an abnormal pap smear, you may not need a pap smear each year. If you’ve ever had a hysterectomy that was not done for an abnormal pap smear and you fall into any of the above categories, your doctor may suggest you only need a pap smear every three to five years. However, any changes to menstrual cycle, abnormal bleeding, or vaginal pain or discomfort should warrant a call to your gynecologist.

Do I Need a Pelvic Exam Every Year?

Annual pelvic exams in addition to your yearly well-woman exam are essential for maintaining your overall health. It is imperative that you do not skip your annual pelvic exam, even if you have had a hysterectomy with removal of the uterus and ovaries. Your annual well visit not only includes a pelvic exam but a breast exam, as well as an opportunity to talk to your doctor about birth control options, weight, cholesterol, blood pressure or any other concerns.

If you have questions regarding the recommendations of when to get a pap smear or a pelvic exam, contact our office at 770.720.7733 or make an appointment online.

A pap smear is a simple procedure which tests for abnormal cervical cells, which can lead to cervical cancer. The test is performed on an exam table and is generally a painless and quick procedure. The doctor uses a speculum to open the vagina so that a sampling brush can be guided in to gather cells from the cervix. This sampling brush is then sent to the lab for study and results will be communicated to the patient after the lab examination is complete.

The 2 Types of Screening Options

Along with the Pap test, an HPV test is also recommended. HPV (human papillomavirus) is a virus that can cause cervical cancer.

These tests are both performed by taking cells from the cervix and tested. The Pap test looks for abnormal cells that may develop into cancerous cells over time. The HPV test looks for the strains of HPV that are most likely to cause cancer.

How Often Should I Get a Pap Smear? HPV Test?

It’s been determined that cervical cancer develops over many years, so the time between Pap exams has generally been expanded. However, it is still very important to visit their OB/GYN every year for an annual exam.

It’s important to note though, that some women may require more screenings than the typical recommended guidelines due to their medical history, weakened immune system, etc. This will be determined by your provider.

The Current Pap Smear and HPV Testing Guidelines

Currently, ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) recommends the following:

• Women younger than 21 should be tested depending on their doctor’s recommendation. This can vary based on medical history, lifestyle, etc.
• Women aged 21-29 should have a pap smear every 3 years. HPV testing alone can be considered for women who are 25 to 29, but Pap tests are preferred.
• Women ages 30-65 years should have a pap test and an HPV test completed every 5 years, or a pap smear every 3 years. Or they can have HPV testing every 5 years.
• Women aged 65 or older do not require testing if they have never had cervical cancer, abnormal cervical cells and have had three negative screening tests in a row.

Again, it’s important to remember that these are simply guidelines. Each woman’s medical history and health situations are different so your doctor may recommend more frequent testing.

Annual Exams are Still Important and Recommended

The routine visit to your OB/GYN is necessary for your overall health, and cervical cancer screening is just one small—but very important—part of that. Whether or not you are due for a Pap exam or HPV screening, you should still visit your OB/GYN at least once a year.

Annual exams are a good time to share information with your doctor regarding any number of concerns, such as:

• Pelvic pain
• Problems with sex
• Birth control
• Abnormal bleeding
• Breast exams
• Pelvic exams
• Testing for STIs (sexually transmitted infections)
• Getting necessary vaccines
• Getting your blood pressure checked
• Other general medical issues.

Follow-Up Testing is Important

If abnormal cervical cells are present, follow-up testing can reveal whether the abnormality is related to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) or cervical cancer. Cherokee Women’s Health will assist in diagnosing and treating cervical issues including dysplasia and cancer. With proper screening and prevention, cervical cancer diagnoses can continue to decrease.

Prevention is Key in Cervical Cancer Screening

Having a monogamous relationship, limiting the number of sexual partners, and using condoms are paramount to a woman’s health. Doctors advise that women receive the HPV vaccine, as well as pap tests, which will help to screen for any abnormalities and catch any precancerous cells (dysplasia) before they spread. Women who are found to have cervical dysplasia can receive treatment to prevent the cells from turning into cancer. Usually, this is removal of the abnormal cells. If cervical cancer is found to be invasive, surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be required to treat the cancer.

Make an Appointment Today

Pap smears and annual exams are a critical component of a well woman’s health exam. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 770.720.7733 or request an appointment online.

Pap Smear Education Articles

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What is a Pap Smear?

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What is abnormal uterine bleeding?
What is a normal menstrual cycle?
At what ages is abnormal bleeding more common?
What causes abnormal bleeding?
How is abnormal bleeding diagnosed?
What tests may be needed to diagnose abnormal bleeding?
What factors are considered when deciding on a type…
What medications are used to help control abnormal…
What types of surgery are performed to treat abnormal…

What is abnormal uterine bleeding?

• Bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after sex
• Spotting anytime in the menstrual cycle
• Bleeding heavier or for more days than normal
• Bleeding after menopause
• Menstrual cycles that are longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days are abnormal.
• The lack of periods for 3-6 months (amenorrhea) also is abnormal.

What is a normal menstrual cycle?

• The menstrual cycle begins with the first day of bleeding of one period and ends with the first day of the next.
• In most women, this cycle lasts about 28 days.
• Cycles that are shorter or longer by up to 7 days are normal.

At what ages is abnormal bleeding more common?

• Abnormal bleeding can occur at any age.
• However, at certain times in a woman’s life it is common for periods to be somewhat irregular.
• Age 9-16 years
  • They may not occur on schedule in the first few years after a girl has her first period (around age 9-16 years).
• Age 35 years.
  • The cycle may get shorter near age 35 years.
• Around age 50 years
  • It often gets shorter as a woman nears menopause (around age 50 years).
  • It also is normal then to skip periods or for bleeding to get lighter or heavier.

What causes abnormal bleeding?

• Common Causes
  • Hormonal Imbalance
    • Too much or not enough of the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle can cause abnormal or heavy bleeding.
    • This imbalance can be caused by many things, including thyroid problems or some medications.
  • Pregnancy
  • Miscarriage
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Problems linked to some birth control methods,
    • Intrauterine device (IUD)
    • Birth control pills
  • Infection of the uterus or cervix
  • Fibroids
  • Problems with blood clotting
  • Polyps
  • Certain types of cancer, such as cancer of the uterus, cervix, or vagina
  • Chronic medical conditions (for instance, thyroid problems and diabetes)
• Diagnosis
  • Your health care provider may start by checking for problems most common in your age group.
  • Some of them are not serious and are easy to treat.

How is abnormal bleeding diagnosed?

• Personal and family health history as well as your menstrual cycle.
• Menstrual Cycle Details
  • Keep track of your menstrual cycle before your visit.
  • Note the dates, length, and type (light, medium, heavy, or spotting) of your bleeding on a calendar.
• Physical exam.
• Blood tests.
  • Blood count
  • Hormone levels
  • Rule out some diseases of the blood.
• A test to see if you are pregnant.

What tests may be needed to diagnose abnormal bleeding?

• Where can these tests be done?
  • Some of these tests can be done in your health care provider’s office.
  • Others may be done at a hospital or surgical center:
• Tests
  • Ultrasound
    • Sound waves are used to make a picture of the pelvic organs.
  • Endometrial biopsy
    • Using a small or thin catheter (tube)
    • Tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
    • It is looked at under a microscope.
  • Sonohysterography
    • Fluid is placed in the uterus through a thin tube
    • While ultrasound images are made of the uterus.
  • Hysteroscopy
    • A thin device is inserted through the vagina and the opening of the cervix.
    • It lets the health care provider view the inside of the uterus.
  • Hysterosalpingography
    • Dye is injected into the uterus and fallopian tubes.
    • Then an X-ray is taken.
  • Dilation and curettage (D&C) — The opening of the cervix is enlarged.
    • Tissue is gently scraped or suctioned from the lining of the uterus.
    • It is examined under a microscope.
  • Laparoscopy
    • A thin device like a telescope is inserted through a small cut
    • Just below or through the navel to view the inside of the abdomen.

What factors are considered when deciding on a type…

• Treatment falls into three types
  • Medications, such as hormones
  • Surgery
  • “watch and wait” before trying the other two treatments.
• The type of treatment will depend on many factors, including
  • The cause of the bleeding.
  • Your age
  • Whether you want to have children also play a role.
• Most women can be treated with medications.

What medications are used to help control abnormal…

• Hormonal medications
  • The type of hormone you take will depend on
    • Whether you want to get pregnant
    • Your age.
  • Birth control pills can help make your periods more regular.
  • Hormones also can be given as
    • An injection
    • A vaginal cream
    • Through an IUD that releases hormones.
      • An IUD is a birth control device that is inserted in the uterus.
      • The hormones in the IUD are released slowly and may control abnormal bleeding.

What types of surgery are performed to treat abnormal…

• Some women may need to have surgery to remove growths
  • Such as polyps or fibroids that cause bleeding.
• Surgical options
  • Some fibroids can be removed with hysteroscopy.
  • Endometrial ablation may be used to control bleeding (see the FAQ Endometrial Ablation).
    • It is intended to stop or reduce bleeding permanently.
    • An endometrial biopsy is needed before ablation is considered.
  • Hysterectomy may be done when other forms of treatment have failed or they are not an option.
    • Hysterectomy is major surgery.
    • Afterward, a woman no longer has periods.
    • She also cannot get pregnant.

Severe bleeding and horrible pain — that’s what Amber began experiencing when she was just 15 years old. Her periods were so heavy that she had to use both a pad and a tampon together, only to have to change them every 1-1 ½ hours.

At age 16, she began seeing an OB/GYN to get relief and answers. Her search led her to many doctors but more often than not, she was simply prescribed 800 milligrams of Ibuprofen. And because none of the doctors performed any tests, Amber got no relief and no diagnosis.

Amber became pregnant with her first baby in 2012. At this time, she was 26 years old, and was still experiencing the same symptoms she’d had for the past eleven years. 

Time for a New Doctor

Amber knew it was time to find a new doctor. Her research led her to Cherokee Women’s Health, impressed by the many outstanding reviews she read and heard about.

“I went to my first visit at Cherokee Women’s Health and fell in love,” Amber says.

A Diagnosis at Last  

During Amber’s prenatal visits, she saw Dr. Haley, who discovered she had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and subsequently treated her for it. PCOS is a hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age that is characterized in infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods. 

And Then, an Abnormal Pap Smear

Between her first and second pregnancies, Amber had a Pap smear that detected pre-cancerous cells. As such, Dr. Haley performed a LEEP. A LEEP is a loop electrosurgical excision procedure that’s used as part of the diagnosis and treatment for abnormal or cancerous conditions, helping to prevent cervical cancer. It’s performed with a small electrical wire loop that removes abnormal cells from the cervix.

Along with the abnormal Pap smear, Dr. Haley also discovered that Amber had endometriosis, a condition that occurs when the endometrium tissue that lines the uterus starts to grow outside of the uterus. Endometriosis can also cause painful bleeding, which Amber learned all too well.   

Unbearable Pain and Bleeding

After Amber had her second baby, her periods were just as bad — if not worse — than before. She would experience horrible pain and would bleed for 3-4 days, only to have it stop, but start up again and last another few days. This happened 3-4 times per month so every month she’d be down and out for at least 2-3 days. It became unbearable.

Dr. Haley Provides Solutions

When Amber returned to Dr. Haley and explained her symptoms, he explained that she had a couple of options.

Dr. Haley started with the least invasive option, which was to insert an IUD to help lessen her bleeding. However, while this option works for many women, it did not work for Amber.

The second option was an endometrial ablation, an in-office procedure that destroys the endometrium to reduce or even eliminate menstrual flow. Since Amber was done having children, Dr. Haley said she was a good candidate.

The ablation was a success and Amber said the procedure, which is covered by most insurance plans, was easy and painless.

Feeling Great

It’s been 2 ½ years since Amber had the ablation and she’s happy to report that other than the occasional spotting, she’s had no pain or bleeding.

She also says that she’s so happy she chose Dr. Haley.

“Dr. Haley is amazing! He deserves 100 gold stars. He is a lifesaver and I recommend him to everyone!” Amber shares,

Dr. Haley is a double board-certified FPMRS surgeon, which means he’s an expert in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. He was also named ‘Mom-Approved’ OB by readers of Atlanta Parent Magazine for his excellent medical care and ‘Patient’s Pick Top Doctor’ for favorite gynecologist by Atlanta Magazine.

If you’re experiencing problems like Amber, and would like to make an appointment with one of our expert doctors, please call 770-720-7733.

Routine annual exams, also known as “well woman” exams, are essential to detect and prevent the unique health problems that women face from their teenage years through post menopause. A woman’s annual checkup includes a pelvic exam, breast exam, and for many women, a pap smear.

Annual Well Woman Exams Include Evaluation For:

GYNECOLOGY AND ANNUAL EXAMS – Routine annual exams, also known as “well woman” exams, are essential to detect and prevent the unique health problems that women face from their teenage years through post menopause. 

CONTRACEPTION – We offer a full range of options to prevent pregnancy, tailored to your needs and preferences.

MENOPAUSE AND HORMONE THERAPY – We offer help in dealing with menopausal symptoms as well as hormone replacement therapy.

CANCER SCREENING – We specialize in the prevention and early diagnosis of cancers specific to women, such as cancers that affect the breast, cervix, uterus and the ovaries.

STD/STI SCREENING – Screenings are important if you are sexually active. With ‘silent’ symptoms, annual testing for sexually transmitted infections and diseases is key. Unless diagnosed through testing, you may not know you have an STD.

PAP SMEARS – A Pap smear is a simple procedure that tests for abnormal cervical cells, which can lead to cancer. Annual screenings are very important.

STERILIZATION – We offer non-surgical option for permanent birth control that can be performed as a simple office procedure.

10 Things To Discuss With Your Gynecologist

It's important to discuss your health concerns with your doctor, as well as any out of the ordinary changes you may be experiencing.

Following are the top 10 things you should always discuss with your gynecologist:

1. My period has gotten heavier.
Heavy bleeding has many causes, among which include hormonal imbalance, the onset of menopause, uterine fibroid tumors, cervical or endometrial polyps or cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), lupus, intrauterine devices (IUDs) and bleeding disorders.Letting your doctor know about the history and symptoms of your excessive bleeding will allow her to perform the appropriate tests and prescribe the proper treatment for you.

2. I leak whenever I run on the treadmill.
“A patient will say to me, 'Hey, doc, sometimes a little urine comes out when I laugh, but that’s just a part of getting older, right?,'” Dr. Gandhi says. The strength of the pelvic floor often has more to do with pregnancy, childbirth, even excess weight than age. Your doctor can recommend several very effective treatments — including Kegel exercises — which may alleviate your symptoms without the need for surgery or medication.

3. I feel like my bladder has fallen.
Patients may experience pain or pressure in the back or bowel area, or the sensation of a bladder infection or general malaise when they “overdo” certain activities. If you do have a “fallen bladder,” your doctor may prescribe pelvic floor strengthening muscles, insert a “pessary” device or recommend surgery to correct the problem.

4. My mother had cancer in her female organs.
Only 5 to 15 percent of cancers are inherited. Your doctor will perform appropriate screenings and offer suggestions to you — including diet, exercise and lifestyle choices — that may help you minimize your risk.

5. My last Pap smear was abnormal.
About one in 10 Pap smears indicate some abnormality, which may indicate infection, herpes, HPV (genital warts), recent sexual activity or dysplasia. Your doctor will likely recommend a follow-up evaluation, but most times the result is not cause for alarm.

6. I have pain with sex.
Discuss the history of the pain with your doctor, whether it is something new or has been going on for some time. She will conduct a thorough physical examination and recommend the appropriate treatment for you, as necessary.

7. I feel a breast lump.
Again, more than 80 to 90 percent of all breast lumps are benign, particularly in women under age 40, but it warrants a conversation with your doctor. If symptoms include nipple discharge, “dimpling” of the skin on the breast, a lump in the armpit or a hard, painless lump, your doctor may recommend a biopsy.

9. I'm confined to bed because I have so much pain with my period.
Painful periods are the number one cause of time missed at school or work for women in their teens and 20s. While the pain is rarely related to any specific problems, your doctor can rule out abnormalities and recommend a range of options for pain management and treatment.

10. I get frequent urinary tract infections.
Pain, burning sensation, urinary urgency and blood in the urine often are the result of E. Coli bacteria in the urinary tract. Your doctor will perform a urine culture to determine the type of bacteria causing your infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment for you.

Schedule an Appointment Today

We're here to help you. Call us at 770.720.7733 or request an appointment online with one of our board-certified OB/GYNs.

What is human papillomavirus (HPV)?
How common is HPV?
How is HPV infection spread?
What diseases does HPV infection cause?
How does HPV cause cancer of the cervix?
Are there screening tests for cervical cancer?
Can HPV infection be prevented?

What is human papillomavirus (HPV)?

• HPV can be passed from person to person through skin-to-skin contact
  • More than 100 types of HPV have been found
  • About 30 of these types infect the genital areas of men and women
  • They spread through sexual contact.

How common is HPV?

• HPV is a very common virus
• At least three out of four people who have sex will get a genital HPV infection at some time during their lives.

How is HPV infection spread?

• It is spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex
• Sexual intercourse is not required for infection to occur
• HPV is spread by skin-to-skin contact
• Sexual contact with an infected partner is the most common way it spreads
• Like many other STDs there are often no signs or symptoms of infection.

What diseases does HPV infection cause?

• Approximately 12 types of HPV cause genital warts
• Growths may appear on the outside or inside of the vagina
• Growth on the penis can spread to nearby skin
• Genital warts can grow around the anus, on the vulva, or on the cervix
• Approximately 15 types of HPV are linked to cancer involving:
  • Anus
  • Cervix
  • Vulva
  • Vagina
  • Penis
• They can cause cancer of the head and neck
• These types are known as “high-risk types”.

How does HPV cause cancer of the cervix?

• The cervix is covered by a thin layer of tissue made up of cells
  • If HPV is present, it may enter these cells
  • Infected cells may become abnormal and grow differently
  • Changes in these cells may progress to what is known as precancer
  • Changes in the thin tissue covering the cervix
    • They are also called dysplasia or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)
  • In most women, the immune system destroys the virus before it causes cancer
  • In some women, HPV is not destroyed by the immune system and does not go away
    • In these cases, HPV can lead to cancer or, more commonly, precancer.

Are there screening tests for cervical cancer?

It usually takes years for cervical cancer to develop. During this time, HPV infection can cause cells on or around the cervix to become abnormal. A Pap test can detect early signs of abnormal cell changes of the cervix. This allows early treatment so they do not become cancer. An HPV test also is available. This is used along with the Pap test in women 30 years and older. This is also used as a follow-up test for women whose Pap tests show abnormal or uncertain results. The HPV test can identify at least 13 of the high-risk types of HPV.

Can HPV infection be prevented?

Young women can prevent certain types of HPV infection by being vaccinated.

The following methods also help decrease the chance of infection:

• Limit your number of sexual partners
• Use condoms to reduce your risk
• Condoms cannot fully protect you against HPV infection
• HPV can be passed from person to person by touching infected areas not covered by a condom
• These areas may include skin in the genital or anal areas
• Female condoms cover more skin and may provide a little more protection than male condoms.

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection. Nearly all sexually active people contract it. If fact, nearly 79 million people are estimated to be currently infected. Each year, another 18 million people will be diagnosed with it. So, what is it?

HPV or human papillomavirus has over 100 unique types, many of which have no symptoms. These types are broken down into ‘low-risk’ and ‘high-risk.’ High-risk types of HPV usually have little to no signs and can cause serious health risks such as cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of HPV

Almost all sexually active people get HPV sometime in their lifetime. It is most commonly passed from partner to partner during vaginal or anal sex. However, it may be transferred during oral sex or intimate skin-to-skin conduct as well.

In many cases, certain types of the human papillomavirus will go away on its own. Other high-risk types may show zero symptoms and can lead to serious health issues such as cancer.

If you or your partner are experiencing any of the following symptoms for low-risk types of HPV, you should consider scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider.

• Genital warts in the form of soft, fleshy bumps
• Irritation or discomfort
• Itching or swelling
• Bleeding with intercourse.

You should be aware that HPV can be passed from one partner to another even when there are no signs of symptoms. If you suspect you or your partner have HPV, preventive measures are recommended.

How is HPV Diagnosed?

Most people that have a high-risk type of HPV don’t even know they have it. Depending on the type very little signs are shown in the beginning stages. The longer the virus stays in your body, the bigger the chance that you’ll be at risk of developing health problems.

It is especially important to have regularly scheduled Pap smears before real damage to your health can be done. Pap smears do not directly test for HPV, however, they can detect abnormal cells in your cervix, that are often caused by HPV.

If your doctor diagnoses you with HPV, they may request that you get tested more regularly to ensure you are healthy and cancer free. Having HPV and getting cancer don’t always go hand in hand but it does put you at a higher risk for getting cancer down the line.

Being pro-active in treating an occurrence of HPV and regularly scheduling follow-up screenings and appointments with your OB/GYN can prevent serious health problems in your future.

Preventive Measures for HPV

The safest and most effective way of preventing HPV is a vaccine. Vaccines such as Gardasil can protect women from getting HPV by helping prevent the transmission of certain types of HPV.

Vaccines are more effective when given prior to exposure of human papillomavirus or sexual activity. HPV vaccines are recommended for both boys and girls starting at around the age of 11 or 12. A second dosage approximately 6 months to a year later is ideal.

Gardasil or other forms of HPV vaccination should be administered to young women throughout the age of 26 and in young men throughout the age of 21.

Even if you aren’t vaccinated, there are ways that sexually active people can lower their risk for contracting HPV or passing it to their partner.

• Use latex condoms – While condoms are not 100% effective, they can help limit skin-to-skin contact when used properly.
• Commit to monogamous sex – You are less likely to contract HPV if you and your partner are in a single partner relationship.
• Abstain from sex – If you’ve recently be diagnosed with HPV, talk to your doctor about recommended abstinence.

Final Thoughts

Women who are concerned they may have or be at risk for contracting HPV should consult their doctor. Regular pap smears are important in catching HPV early and preventing it from causing more serious health issues.

If you’ve already been diagnosed with HPV, keep an open dialog with your health care provider. Together you can come up with a plan to be pro-active in treating it and screening for cancer in the future.