There are a few things a woman can do to aid in receiving more accurate pap smear results. Following these tips can help reduce the risk of false abnormal Pap smear results, also.
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Tips for a More Accurate Pap Smear
- Tell your doctor about any discharge, itching, or symptoms you may be experiencing before the Pap smear. Your doctor may want to prescribe medication to clear any infection you may have. Infections can sometimes cause the Pap smear results to come back as abnormal.
- Do not have a Pap smear during your period. It is suggested to have a Pap smear between 10 and 20 days after your period.
- Avoid sex 24-48 hours prior to to the Pap smear.
- No douching, tampons, deodorant sprays, feminine washes 48 hours prior to the pap smear. Good rule of thumb is nothing in the vagina. This means vaginal creams, as well.
- Know the procedures of your doctor's office in reporting the results to you. It usually takes a week or two to get results back. Sometimes it is the policy to call with all results, normal and abnormal. However, many offices do not call if everything was normal. Be sure you know what their policy is.
