At CHOICES, we use the latest Thin Prep technology for your Pap test; our affiliate lab also tests for the Human Papilloma Virus in order for your care to be better managed.

What is a Pap test?
A Pap test is a screening test that checks for changes in the cells of your cervix. It provides information, such as if you have an infection or abnormal, unhealthy cells. Abnormal cervical cells may be an early sign of cervical cancer; routine Pap tests can find these abnormal cells so that, if necessary, you can be treated before cervical cancer develops.

How do you prepare for a Pap test?
To receive accurate test results, it is suggested that, for TWO days prior to your pap test, you avoid:

• Having sex
• Using tampons
• Using vaginal creams, suppositories, medicines
• Using vaginal deodorants, powders, sprays
• Douching (however, in fact, douching is NOT recommended for health/hygiene at any time)

Performing a Pap test during a woman's period can provide inaccurate results. Therefore, CHOICES' providers recommend that you are not menstruating for your routine GYN annual exams.

How often do I need a Pap test?

• A female's first Pap test should be done by the ages of 18-21 OR when she becomes sexually active if younger than age 18.
• Pap tests are recommended to be done annually (ONE time per year). However, if the Pap test result is abnormal, your provider may follow-up with another Pap every six months.

What do abnormal Pap test results mean?

• Many abnormal test results DO NOT result in a cervical cancer diagnosis. Often there can be inflammation, a benign infection, or other small problem with the cervix.
• Some abnormal cells can, over time, turn into cancer. However, by detecting these unhealthy cells early and treating them appropriately, almost all cases of cervical cancer can be prevented.
• Your CHOICES' provider will review your Pap test results with you, normally about 2 weeks following the examination.

What causes Cervical Cancer?

• Human Papilloma virus (HPV) is a group of viruses. Some may cause genital warts, others may cause cervical cell changes and can lead to cervical cancer. HPV is transmitted via sexual contact with an infected partner.
• Often, women do not know they have been exposed to HPV. It can stay hidden and does not always cause symptoms, like warts.
• Routine, yearly Pap tests identify the presence of any abnormal cells affected by HPV. If found, appropriate follow-up and treatment is provided to prevent the cells from progressing to cancer.

Can I protect myself against Human Papilloma Virus?
Yes, there is a vaccine available for females ages 9-26. This vaccine, Gardasil, will vaccinate a female against the four most common and prevalent types of HPV. Choices encourages all eligible patients to receive this vaccine.