2007-01-18 13:01:32 · 4 answers · asked by need to know 1 in Health ➔ Women's Health
If you have a total hysterectomy and the cervix is taken out (this is the usual surgery nowadays) then you don't need Paps. However, if the surgery is done because of a cancer diagnosis then you do still need regular Pap smears. If you don't need Paps, then you still need pelvic exams to check on the ovaries if they are still there.
Actually, most often the cervix is taken out especially if the surgery is done by an OB/GYN. Some general surgeons may leave the cervix behind because it is easier to do so.
And to the other answerer who said that you should still have paps to look for other infections, that's crazy because that is not what Pap smears are for.
2007-01-18 13:19:54 · answer #1 · answered by Aine 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
In general, yes.
The cervix is usually left in place, simply because it's technically a much more difficult procedure to remove it along with the uterus.
A friend of mine requested that that be done when she had a hysterectomy, and this was the explanation that was given to her for not doing so. And of course, if you still have a cervix, you can still develop cervical cancer.
2007-01-18 13:25:37 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
It would be the 'smart' thing to do..
Just because you have most of your parts removed with a
hysterectomy, you can still get certain deseases and bacterial infections down there.
So yes, have pap smears!
Better to be safe than sorry..
2007-01-18 13:31:46 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you still have your cervix, then the answer is yes.
2007-01-18 13:05:12 · answer #4 · answered by chieromancer 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋