Binghamton, NY (WBNG Binghamton) Pap smears are meant to detect cell changes, or lesions, that could turn cancerous if let untreated.
It's the best method for early detection, allowing your doctor to monitor the results, and treat if needed.
When it comes to pap smears, most women have normal results, so they don't think twice about them.
But when results show the presence of abnormal cells, the news usually takes a toll.
Fears of cancer surface, even if the changes aren't considered even precancerous yet.
Doctors say it's a common reaction.
"This is a normal thing that we see very commonly, and you can't let this emotionally get a hold of you," says Dr. James Kondrup of Broome Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Even if a woman does have an abnormal pap, it's not an immediate cause for concern. In fact, most women who have minor to moderate changes will reverse them on their own without treatment.
Usually, the follow up is a colposcopy. It uses a microscope so doctors can get a closer look.
Then, your doctor may ask for a biopsy to determine if further treatment is needed.
"We're finding that waiting is often better because we do less harm to the patient," Dr. Kondrup says
However, if a lesion is found to be severe or precancerous, treatment is needed.
The preferred treatment is known as LEEP, which stands for Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure.
It uses a thin wire loop with an electric current to remove the abnormal cells.
The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and low risk.
"We just shave the surface of the cervix to remove most of the lesion, but also to stimulate her body to come and fight off that virus," Dr. Kondrup says.
Typically, pap smears are performed every six months until there are three consecutive clear tests. Then it returns to a yearly exam once more.
The power to protect yourself is in your hands, and that's why it's one of few cancers that can be prevented.
Even if a woman does clear the HPV virus, she may not be out of the woods forever.
Keep in mind any future sexual partners can infect you with a different strain. If it's linked to cervical cancer, the entire process could be repeated.
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