What age should you begin to get a PAP ?
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Answers:
- When you are 21 or you are sexually active, whichever comes first. The Whichever Comes First is important.
- Your doctor uses a device called a speculum which opens up your vagina so (s)he can take a look at your cervix and swab for cells on your cervix.
- Cells are tested for changes, etc.
- The whole appointment takes about 15 minutes, the speculum part takes less than 5, doesn't usually hurt but might be a little uncomfortable. It's better if you relax and don't think about it too much.
When you become sexually active or 18 whichever comes first..
The sooner the better. Some doctors recommend girls start getting pap tests right after they start getting periods. Others say when you become sexually active or turn 18.
When you become sexaully active or when you turn 18 which ever comes first. When the time comes that you need one your regular doc can do this for you. You do not need to see a GYN to get this done.
The actual pap smear isn't necessary until you are having sex. You really should go see the gyno before that. Get to know her, start on a good hygiene system. talk about birth control. You might not get an exam, but it is great to know who is going to be doing it before its time. Pap smears should be started once you have sex,,...ANY KIND of sex. You should get one every year for the rest of your life. Mammograms will be done at 35 yrs and then at 40, and every 1 or 2 years after that.
the new age is 21 i believe (changed very recently), although if you become sexually active before then you should get one soon after
I believe it is 21 (not 18), unless you are having problems, or you've been sexually active.
It's a little uncomfortable to get it done. And generally will be *quite* uncomfortable if you are a virgin.
I started getting them when I was 18
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