January is Cervical Cancer Awareness month. The good news is that cervical cancer is one of those cancers that we have been able to catch early with pap smears. With other gynecological cancers, it is more difficult to diagnose them early. Most people that have been diagnosed with cervical cancer have never had a pap smear within the past 5 years or have never followed up with their physician after having an abnormal pap smear. Make sure that you are up to date with your pap smear.
There are several myths about a pap smear that I would like to dispel. A pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer. It is not a screening test for other forms of gynecologic cancer like ovarian cancer or endometrial cancer. Recently there has been some confusion with the introduction of new guidelines governing the frequency of having pap smears. The new guidelines suggest having a pap smear less frequently than once a year. Every individual has a different set of circumstances and my view is that you talk with your doctor about what is best for you. Guidelines are developed for a large group of people and often direct physician on what is the minimum care that should be provided to an individual. The frequency of pap smears you require will be based on your individual history and whether your physician has performed additional tests like the human papillomavirus (HPV) test.
Let me be very clear. You still need to get an annual gynecological examination performed by your doctor, even if it has been determined that you are not a candidate for pap smears every year, or more frequently. A pap smear is just one of the tests performed by your gynecologist during your annual examination. A pelvic exam encompasses much more than the pap smear. It involves screening for sexually transmitted infections and other infections. The gynecologist also performs a clinical breast examination during your annual. They use the annual exam to check your weight and your blood pressure. They will provide contraceptive counseling and make sure you are up to date with your immunization. There are many other tests that are performed in an annual gynecological exam, and you do a disservice to yourself if you fail to see your doctor at least once every year, regardless of whether you need a pap smear or not.
Let this month be a reminder to schedule you annual gynecologic exam. It does not end when you stop having children or if you have had a hysterectomy. This exam can begin in adolescence. You can visit your gynecologist for your yearly checkup, even if you have not had sex, or not sexually active. For the young people coming for the first time it does not mean a pelvic exam needs to be performed. It can be an opportunity to talk to a physician about issues you may not feel comfortable discussing with your pediatrician.
Keep healthy and happy in 2010.
NB: Happy New Year! I hope all is going well with you and those who hold your affection. My sincere apologies for not getting out the blog in time, but one of my resolutions is to do better the rest of this year. I hope to post new ones by the first Monday of every month.
