About a year ago, I started thinking about having a baby. I knew that I wanted to have a child, but I wasn't sure if my husband was ready. However, after a great discussion with my hubby, I could tell that it was time. We started looking into different options, and I found a great team of professionals who could help. After we tried for a few months, we went in for our appointment, and I was pleased to learn that I was pregnant. It was really special to learn about our little one, and before we knew it, we were inviting our little one into the world. This website is all about starting your family with the help of a great doctor.
Understanding the process of a first-trimester abortion is important for anyone considering this option.
In the realm of aesthetic medicine, cosmetic gynecology has emerged as a specialized field that addresses
From boosting energy levels to improving the immune system, vitamin injections are transforming women's l
Your pelvic floor is a part of your body that you might largely ignore. If you don't actively feel pain o
When you're pregnant, your baby grows inside your uterus every day. It can be difficult to tell if your u
Of all the things you value, your health is likely at the top of the list. Protecting that health whenever possible, should be the goal of all women, and one very effective way to do that is with the Pap smear test. This test can detect early indications of abnormal cellular activity, which can save your life. Sometimes, a gynecologist will order a colposcopy following unusual results on a Pap. Here's what that entails:
Is A Colposcopy Just Another Pap Smear?
Yes and no—although a colposcopy is performed in much the same manner as the Pap, it gets into more detail. A special substance (often made from simple vinegar) is applied to the vaginal area. This highlights any abnormal cellular activity, as the doctor examines more closely with a special microscope (the colposcope). Your feet are up in those same stirrups, just like when you have your Pap smear test, but with the colposcopy, a gynecologist is able to get a much more in-depth picture of what's going on with the cells.
Does The Procedure Hurt?
The procedure might hurt, but if you are able to tolerate the Pap, you shouldn't have any major problems with a colposcopy; however, if you tend to be sensitive, this test could get uncomfortable. It's fairly brief, lasting only a little longer than the usual Pap smear, but if you're anxious about going through it, ask your doctor what your options are. You could try relaxation techniques, have a personal listening device with you, or maybe ask someone you're close with to accompany you to the appointment. No matter what, though, this test is too important to miss.
What Are They Looking For, Anyway?
Your Pap likely revealed something a bit unusual, which may simply mean some cells are different than others. Your doctor needs to examine the cells under the microscope to see if the changes indicate pre-cancerous activity. The vulva, cervix, and tissues of the vaginal wall will all be inspected to determine their state of health on a cellular level. If your gynecologist suspects something, they'll also conduct a tissue biopsy, which may extend the length of your procedure and add to the general discomfort. Constantly reminding yourself of how vital this examination is should help you get through it easier.
How Soon Will The Results Be Available?
Biopsy results can take a few weeks, but your doctor will let you know how soon you can expect a full report. Keep your optimism up and congratulate yourself for going through the testing process, especially if you found it difficult.
What If They Find Something?
Since this test is designed to discover cells that are doing something other than what they should be doing, "bad" cells could be found. This generally indicates pre-cancerous activity, and it will be graded according to how likely it is to develop into a more serious state. Such cells might be removed by laser, cryotherapy (freezing), or some other procedure your doctor deems appropriate.
While the Pap smear and colposcopy may not be pleasant experiences, they really could save your life. Cervical cancer is a silent killer, claiming thousands of lives every year, but these tests can sound the alarm early enough to give women the time they need to effectively battle the disease. That's why the colposcopy can truly be a better friend than diamonds. Check out websites like http://www.centraliowaobgyn.com for more info.
Share