When we have pap smears, does that detect cancer down there also, what all does it detect?
Thanks
2006-06-28 16:37:47 · 12 answers · asked by Selena*Forever 3 in Health ➔ Women's Health
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Papanicolaou smear, cervical smear, cervical/vaginal cytology
detects only abnormal cells that are indicators for dysplasia (Dysplasia is the term used for cells that have changed and grown or developed abnormally. Typically it means that the cells are at increased risk for developing into cancer) to cancer.
Dysplasia can occur for a number of reasons other than cancer.
2006-06-28 16:48:22 · answer #1 · answered by --- 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Yeap, pap smear test do detect cervic cancer and infections. Doctors always advise do the checking once every 2 years. But personally I always check once every year. 2 years are too long, anything can happen over here. 1 of my frd's auntie have cervic cancer and by the time, she find out is 3rd stages. She has passed away....
2006-06-29 01:16:23 · answer #2 · answered by Jessica Jiang 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most OB/GYNs will perform a generic pap smear, but, it they can screen it for HPV. HPV is the virus that causes Cervical Cancer. Of course, there are other types of cancers that can occur 'down there', but, if you have regular check ups...your doctor should be able to catch any problems. I'm not a doctor, though, and only speak from experience.
2006-06-28 23:45:06 · answer #3 · answered by waitonmetoo 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pap smears test for cervical cancer.
2006-06-28 23:40:14 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes it detects cancerous cells in your uterus, cervix, and everywhere "down there". It can also detect STD's or any other type of infections. They are not very comfortable, buut for only once a year, it's worth it for the peace of mind.
2006-06-28 23:44:20 · answer #5 · answered by tallgirl 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
just cancer and HPV. a cytologist looks for abnormal cells. not STD's. to detect one of those you'll need to have a culture done. there are different media for different types of cultures also. not just one type will detect all STD's. hope that helps.
2006-06-28 23:54:09 · answer #6 · answered by vanessa w 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Make sure you ask your doctor to check for HPV. It is a STD that can lead in SOME cases lead to cancer but in most cases it clears up on it's own. Check it out on WebMD or Google "HPV".
2006-06-28 23:40:48 · answer #7 · answered by spiralcurl719 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes it does detect cancer as well as std's
2006-06-28 23:40:37 · answer #8 · answered by sngcddls 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes that is the primary reason for one...the gyno will let you know the results. If the tests come back abnormal they will do a biopsy.
2006-06-28 23:45:38 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, but you would have to have a biopsy to be certain. It also detects STD's.
2006-06-28 23:41:50 · answer #10 · answered by Jen 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋