Pap Smears

Pap Smears services offered in Fredericksburg, VA

Healthcare providers diagnose about 13,000 new cases of cervical cancer yearly in the United States. At Millenium Elite Primary Care in Fredericksburg, Virginia, we offer women’s health services, including breast exams and Pap smears to screen for cancer. Schedule an appointment with us by calling the office or booking a visit online today. Telemedicine is also available for women's health concerns.

Pap Smears Q & A

What are Pap smears?

Pap smears are diagnostic tests that use a swab to screen for cervical cancer in women. A lab evaluates cervical cells after the provider obtains the swab and determines if the cells are suspicious, pre-cancerous, or cancerous. This test is a highly important screening procedure for women, especially those of childbearing age, and can save lives.

What are the benefits of undergoing routine Pap smears?

The benefits of completing regular Pap smears include early detection of cervical cancer and a lower risk of the disease progressing. When not caught early, more than 4,300 women die of cervical cancer each year in the United States.

Pap smears can also screen for a sexually transmitted disease called human papillomavirus (HPV), a risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV is spread via sexual contact (oral, vaginal, or anal sex with an infected partner). Using a condom or a dental dam reduces your risk of HPV. HPV vaccinations are also available.

What should I expect during a Pap smear?

A Pap smear is a simple and fast procedure. A specialized instrument is inserted through your vagina to gain access to your cervix. The are is swabbed, obtaining a sample of cells to send to a lab. After receiving the results, we determine if you need additional diagnostic testing or treatment to remove cancerous or pre-cancerous tissues.

We refer you to another specialist if necessary to complete any required surgical procedures.

How often should I schedule a Pap smear?

The frequency of Pap smears depends on your medical history, age, risk factors, and lifestyle.

You might not need a Pap test until turning 21 and again every three years until age 29. From 30 to 65, you may need a Pap test every 3-5 years, depending on whether you’re also tested for HPV. You likely don’t need a Pap smear after age 65 unless you have a history of cervical cancer, and you don’t need Pap tests if you don’t have a cervix.

However, it’s a good idea to schedule women’s health exams every year to screen for common medical concerns many women experience during their lifetimes.

Schedule Pap smears at Millenium Elite Primary Care by calling the office or booking an appointment online today. Telemedicine visits are also available for consultation.