“Generally, your routine gynecologic care (mammography, Pap smear and HPV co-testing) can be handled by your internist or family medicine doctor, so there is no need to visit a gynecologist, unless your primary doctor refers you for abnormalities (abnormal Pap smear or postmenopausal bleeding), or you are having active …
Does a gynecologist do Pap smears?
A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is a screening performed in your doctor’s office (typically by a gynecologist, but nurse practitioners and family doctors also perform them).
Can a general doctor do a Pap smear?
“Some internists and family medicine specialists can do general gynecology,” Dr. Albright said. “They do pap smears and STD screening. … They can refer patients for breast screenings as recommended based on their age (plus or minus medical or family history).
When should females start seeing a gynecologist?
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends girls have their first gynecologic visit between ages 13 and 15. Why is that? Naturally, a girl should see us at any age if she has medical issues or questions.
Should I see a gynecologist or regular doctor?
Many healthy women often choose to see only a primary care doctor or an OB-GYN for their care. So, if you’re in good overall health, you can see whomever you prefer for your annual checkups. That said, if you have an OB-GYN you trust, it’s a good idea to have a traditional primary care doctor you trust, too.
What does a gynecologist look for in a Pap smear?
The Pap test (also called a Pap smear) checks for changes in the cells of your cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina (birth canal). The Pap test can tell if you have an infection, abnormal (unhealthy) cells, or cancer.
What does a gynecologist do during a Pap smear?
Gynecologists recommend a Pap smear starting at age 21, and then every 3 years for women in their 20s. In this test, the doctor gently scrapes cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula. The sample is checked in a lab for cell changes and cervical cancer.
Who performs a Pap smear?
A gynecologist typically performs a Pap test. A gynecologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating diseases of a woman’s reproductive organs. Sometimes other health care providers perform Pap tests. This may include primary care doctors, physician assistants, or nurse practitioners.
Who qualifies for Pap smear?
The AAFP recommends screening for cervical cancer in women ages 21 to 65, with a Pap smear every 3 years. Women ages 30 to 65 who want to lengthen the screening interval can opt to do a Pap smear with human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing every 5 years.
When should a woman get her first Pap smear?
Women should start Pap smear screening at age 21. Between the ages of 21-29, women whose Pap smears are normal only need it repeated every three years. Women ages 30 and over should have testing for the human papillomavirus (HPV) with their Pap smear. HPV is the cause of cervical cancer.
Can I never go to a gynecologist?
“Generally, your routine gynecologic care (mammography, Pap smear and HPV co-testing) can be handled by your internist or family medicine doctor, so there is no need to visit a gynecologist, unless your primary doctor refers you for abnormalities (abnormal Pap smear or postmenopausal bleeding), or you are having active …
Does a Pap smear hurt?
Some women might need to get tested more often, though. So ask your doctor. The Pap smear shouldn’t hurt, but it might be uncomfortable. The good news is, it’s over quickly.
Can I use my gynecologist as my primary care physician?
There’s nothing inherently wrong with going to an obstetrician/gynecologist for routine preventive visits — these doctors are trained to provide such services — but a recent study suggests that women who choose an OB/GYN as their primary physician may miss out on more-comprehensive care.