At Health Care Solutions in Las Cruces, NM, our doctors can provide many care options that can improve your health and ensure that you’re safe. For example, they can provide a Pap smear for those who need it. If you’ve never had this test before, it’s important to know exactly what it tests and why it’s important. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Pap Test?
A Pap test is a procedure designed to check for cervical cancer in women and to ensure that they’re safe and protected from this problematic disease. It typically occurs after your doctor has performed a typical pelvic exam. They take some cells from the cervix using a soft brush: it should be fairly pain-free and will usually be over in no more than a few minutes.
After taking this test, your doctor will check for signs of abnormal cells. Once they find any abnormalities, they’ll contact you right away and talk about treatment options that may work well for you. This process may include cancer treatment if you need it. However, most Pap tests are routine matters and don’t return any concerning cells that need to be addressed. In this way, you can catch early cervix cancer and manage it while it's still a minor problem.
Why Are These Tests Important?
As you might imagine, getting a Pap smear in Las Cruces, NM, can potentially save your life. Simply put, it will effectively track your risk of cervix cancer and catch this problem before it becomes more serious. Tragically, this cancer often doesn’t cause any obvious symptoms until it’s too late: a Pap test is often the first sign that you have any issue at all. Without one, your cancer could spread unimpeded.
Our team at Health Care Solutions can help you through this process and ensure that it goes smoothly and effectively. With our provider's skillful care and intelligent diagnostic support, you can track potential cancer risks and get the care you need to stay healthy. You owe it to yourself and your family to get this test.
Don’t Ignore This Critical Test
At Health Care Solutions in Las Cruces, NM, women schedule a Pap smear at least once a year after they hit 30. As you age, your cervix cancer risk will heavily increase and potentially threaten your life. If you have a family history of this disease or simply want the peace of mind that a Pap test can provide, call us at (575) 524-3346 to set an appointment.
