Is there another way to do a Pap smear?

TUESDAY, Aug. 21, 2018 (HealthDay News) -- The Pap smear has long been the gold standard for cervical cancer screening, but an expert panel now says the HPV (human papillomavirus) test is also an option for women over 30.

Is there an alternative to the Pap smear?

Investigators concluded that urinary HPV testing may be a good alternative to undergoing a Pap smear. “Because home HPV urinary testing is non-invasive and do[es] not require medical attention, this method may be an alternative for women who are reluctant to use Pap smear,” the investigators wrote.

Can you get a Pap smear without a speculum?

One of the main causes of discomfort is the speculum (the instrument used to hold the walls of the vagina open). It is now possible to do cervical screening by testing for the virus that causes cervical cancer; human papillomavirus (HPV). An advantage of HPV testing is that samples can be taken without a speculum.

Can you get an ultrasound instead of a Pap smear?

Although Papanicolaou test (PAP smear) tests are the preferred screening tool, sonography can be used to assess the uterus, ovaries, and adnexa for any changes that would suggest abnormalities and disease.

Is there a less painful Pap smear?

Pap smears shouldn't hurt. If you're getting your first Pap, it may feel a little uncomfortable because it's a new sensation that your body isn't yet used to. People often say it feels like a small pinch, but everyone has a different threshold for pain.

Pap and HPV Testing | Nucleus Health

How can I relax during a Pap smear?

Can you get laughing gas for a Pap smear?

Since most patients can find this procedure uncomfortable, Dr. Aliabadi always uses numbing medication on the cervix and Nitrous Oxide (aka “laughing gas”), which virtually eliminates anxiety and helps with any remaining discomfort.

Does a vaginal ultrasound hurt?

Having a transvaginal ultrasound may feel a little bit uncomfortable or embarrassing, but it shouldn't hurt.

Does a colposcopy hurt?

A colposcopy is nearly pain-free. You might feel pressure when the speculum goes in. It might also sting or burn a little when they wash your cervix with the vinegar-like solution. If you get a biopsy, you might have some discomfort.

What is a pelvic exam vs Pap smear?

Although not the same, a pelvic exam and a pap smear are both necessary components for a woman's health, although not for the same reasons. A pelvic exam is more concerned with the health of your vagina and pelvis, while a pap smear looks for abnormal cell changes that may potentially lead to cervical cancer.

What can I use instead of a speculum?

The Callascope has the potential to offer an alternative to the standard duckbill speculum for clinical exams, which like the self-breast exam, will allow individuals with cervices to perform basic cervical exams in their own homes.

Does inserting speculum hurt?

While it may be uncomfortable, a speculum should never be painful. If you start to feel pain, tell your doctor. They may be able to switch to a smaller speculum.

Is there a new smear test?

The new test is known as HPV primary screening and is more accurate at detecting who is at higher risk of developing cervical cancer. This means the intervals for those who are not at high risk can be safely extended from 3 to 5 years.

Why was my smear test so painful?

There are many reasons why a smear test may be painful, including: Vaginismus, which is when the vagina suddenly tightens as you try to put something into it. Endometriosis. Cervical ectropion (cervical erosion)

Can a Pap smear be done at home?

Women will be provided an at-home HPV screening kit that includes a tiny brush to swab the vagina to collect cells and a specimen container to mail the swab back to the testing facility. The study, which will be run by the NCI, will assess if the at-home test is comparable to a screening performed in a doctor's office.

Is a colposcopy worse than a Pap smear?

A colposcopy is like a Pap smear

Smith dilates your cervix (the opening of your uterus) with a speculum. But it doesn't hurt more than or take longer than opening your cervix for a Pap smear.

Are you put to sleep for a colposcopy?

Sometimes a local anesthetic is used to numb the area before the biopsy. Ask your doctor about the different types of biopsies that could potentially be done during your colposcopy.

Should I be scared of a colposcopy?

Receiving an abnormal Pap test result can be stressful. Being told you also need a follow-up test called a colposcopy can really stir up even more anxiety. Even though the word colposcopy may sound scary — but there's no reason the actual procedure has to be.

How long does a transvaginal exam take?

How long does a transvaginal ultrasound take? The examination takes between 15–30 minutes. Sometimes you will be asked to wait and have the images checked by the radiologist or obstetrician sonologist (specialist doctors).

Is an internal ultrasound better than an external?

The reason for this is that in an internal scan the probe is closer to the uterus and can produce better quality images. This means an internal scan can detect a developing baby much earlier than an external scan, so an internal scan is often performed to detect a pregnancy in the very early stages.

How is transvaginal ultrasound done?

During a transvaginal ultrasound, your doctor or a medical technician inserts a wandlike device (transducer) into your vagina while you lie on your back on an exam table. The transducer emits sound waves that generate images of your pelvic organs, including your ovaries.

How do you relax for a pelvic exam?

A: Communicate with your provider that you're feeling nervous and tense. They can help position you to feel more comfortable. Practice slow, deep breathing. Try to relax your shoulders, your stomach muscles and the muscles between your legs.

Can I request a smaller speculum?

Ask for a smaller speculum

"If you can tolerate sex or a sex toy, most people will be able to tolerate a speculum," explains Dr Kaye. But if it is painful, then your doctor or nurse can use a smaller one.

How can I not be scared of a Pap smear?

Is it normal to get wet during a pelvic exam?

There is nothing wrong with you. Your body's natural response of lubrication in this particular case has nothing to do with whether you are aroused by your doctor or the examination itself. Also, some women lubricate more than others and that is normal too.