Pap Smears And HPV

What is the human papillomavirus (HPV)?

The human papillomavirus or HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States. There are over 150 different strains of HPV. Most don't cause symptoms, but some types of the virus can cause genital warts or increase your cervical cancer risk. 

HPV 6 and 11 are most likely to cause genital warts that look like small cauliflower or mushroom growths. They might be flat or raised and are usually flesh-toned. They typically develop within a few weeks or months of exposure. 

HPV 16, 18, and 45 are the most likely to advance to cervical cancer.

How does HPV spread?

HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, typically during oral, vaginal, or anal sexual activities. The virus can spread through genital contact without sex, but this method of transmission is less common. A person with HPV can spread the virus even if they don't have symptoms. 

HPV doesn't spread from toilet seats, swimming pools, sharing food, or holding hands. 

What is a Pap smear?

A Pap smear is a routine screening test for cervical cancer. It involves having cells taken from your cervix and analyzed by a laboratory to see if there are any signs of changes that could indicate cancer. The providers at Ideal Gynecology are leading experts at performing pap smears.  Primary care physicians from all over Atlanta refer patient to Ideal gynecology for their pap smears and for any abnormal results. 

Pap smears are looking for precancerous changes caused by the HPV virus. If your Pap smear returns with an abnormal result, your provider may suggest a colposcopy to determine the extent of the cell change.  The recommendations for treating abnormal pap smears are under constant change and the leaders at Ideal Gynecology are providing the gold standard of care.

What tests would I need after an abnormalPap smear?

One of the main tests that can find out why you have an abnormal Pap smear is a colposcopy.  Many women manage the discomfort with ibuprofen to tylenol, but if you feel you need more, Ideal Gynecology is here for you.  The providers at Ideal Gynecology are the leading experts in Atlanta for nitrous oxide during your colposcopy for pain management.

Your provider begins by gently inserting the appropriate size speculum into your vagina. They identify your cervix and apply vinegar, which lights up any abnormal cells.

The colposcope is a specialized microscope that gives your specialized women's health provider a clear view of your cervix. If there are any abnormalities present, they can perform a biopsy, taking tissue samples from two areas of your cervix (the endocervix and exocervix). Sensations of pressure or cramping are normal during a cervical biopsy.

The providers performing colposcopies at Ideal Gynecology are all certified by the gold standard organization ASCCP.

What happens after a colposcopy for an abnormal Pap smear?

For the week following your colposcopy, you should avoid:

• Sexual intercourse
• Using tampons
• Vigorous exercise
• Douching
• Heavy lifting

Ibuprofen medication can help if you have cramping after your colposcopy. You might also experiene a brown discharge and some light bleeding, but if you have severe cramps, heavy bleeding, or fever, you should contact Ideal Gynecology, LLC, as these aren't normal.

The biopsy samples taken during your colposcopy go to the lab for testing, which can take up to two weeks. When the results arrive, your provider at Ideal Gynecology, LLC, discusses them with you and advises you whether you need any further tests or treatments, such as a LEEP.

Click on the link above or call Ideal Gynecology, LLC, at (470) 312-35696 today to find out more about what your Pap smear means.  Our leading experts are looking forward to guiding you through the process.