As with all cancer, chances of recovery are best if it's detected early. If HPV is detected early, treatment can stop cervical cancer from developing. An annual pap smear can help detect early signs of HPV. When you have a pap smear, your gynecologist will use an object called a speculum to keep your vagina open and then use a cotton-swab to scrape cells from the cervix and vagina. This is to check the cells for any abnormalities. The American Cancer Society recommends an annual pap test at least 3 years after vaginal intercourse. However, once you reach the age of 21, it's recommended to have regular annual pap tests, even if you are not yet sexually active.
As with all cancer, chances of recovery are best if it's detected early. If HPV is detected early, treatment can stop cervical cancer from developing. An annual pap smear can help detect early signs of HPV. When you have a pap smear, your gynecologist will use an object called a speculum to keep your vagina open and then use a cotton-swab to scrape cells from the cervix and vagina. This is to check the cells for any abnormalities. The American Cancer Society recommends an annual pap test at least 3 years after vaginal intercourse. However, once you reach the age of 21, it's recommended to have regular annual pap tests, even if you are not yet sexually active.
