At Green Valley OB/GYN, we understand that a woman’s needs are unique. Our gynecological services include annual and preventative health exams, which may include a Pap test (or Pap smear) to screen for cervical cancer.
The American College of Gynecology recommends that women ages 21-29 years old should have a Pap Test done every three (3) years. Women ages 30-65 should have a Pap test every five (5) years.
If the results are of your Pap smear are abnormal, your physician may repeat the test sooner than the recommended guidelines suggest or may perform a colposcopy.
A colposcopy is a method of examining the cervix, vagina, and vulva with a surgical instrument called a colposcope. This procedure is performed in-office and requires no anesthetic.
It can be used to diagnose the following conditions:
- Abnormal cervical cells, precancer or cancer of the cervix, vagina or vulva
- Genital warts
- Inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis)
In cases where abnormal cervical cells are detected, a Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) may be performed. During this procedure, a small electrical wire loop heated by electric current is used to remove the abnormal cells from the cervix.
LEEP may also be used to assist in the diagnosis or treatment of the following conditions:
- Polyps (benign growths)
- Genital warts, which may indicate infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a risk factor for developing cervical cancer
- Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure in women whose mothers took DES during pregnancy, as DES exposure increases the risk for cancer of the reproductive system
An annual well visit is essential to the management of a woman’s overall health. To schedule an appointment for a , call (336) 378-1110.