How are abnormal cells changes found?
Doctors and nurses test for abnormal cell changes through a simple procedure called a Pap smear. A Pap smear is usually part of an annual pelvic examination. A pelvic exam includes the doctor or nurse checking the external genital area. They also use their hands to feel the shape of the internal reproductive organs to make sure they feel normal. What is a Pap smear? A Pap smear is a test made to find abnormal cells on the cervix before they turn into cancer (precancerous changes). Precancerous changes are caused by HPV. The Pap smear is simple and quick, and most women have little discomfort. A small wooden spatula and a small brush are used to collect cells from the cervix. The cells are fixed onto a slide and the slide is examined by a pathology lab to make sure the cells look normal. If the cells don’t look normal your doctor or nurse may repeat the Pap smear in a few months. Often, the repeated Pap smear will be normal. Or, they may ask you to come in to look at your cervix with a
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