New guidelines for pap smears were published on March 14, 2012. What's changed? The frequency in which the test should be performed has been greatly reduced. Additionally, it is recommended that all women 30+ be screened for HPV (Human Papilloma Virus).
New Guidelines for Pap Smears
Below is a summary of the new guidelines.
Please note that if there are abnormal findings on your previous pap or if you have received an HPV vaccine these guidelines will not apply to your unique situation.
Information Provided by: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians
If you're using hormonal birth control you may want to speak to your doctor about increased risk associated with the pill. It's important to check with your doctor regularly while taking hormonal birth control or if you develop symptoms of post-birth control syndrome.
While the new guidelines do mean less repeat paps, women should continue see their health care practitioner on an annual basis for physical exams and laboratory work.
Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, is a women’s hormone expert and prominent leader in women’s medicine. As a licensed naturopathic physician who is board certified in naturopathic endocrinology, she takes an integrative approach in her clinical practice. A fierce patient advocate and completely dedicated to uncovering the root cause of hormonal imbalances, Dr. Brighten empowers women worldwide to take control of their health and their hormones. She is the best selling author of Beyond the Pill and Healing Your Body Naturally After Childbirth. Dr. Brighten is an international speaker, clinical educator, medical advisor within the tech community, and considered a leading authority on women’s health. She is a member of the MindBodyGreen Collective and a faculty member for the American Academy of Anti Aging Medicine. Her work has been featured in the New York Post, Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Huffington Post, Bustle, The Guardian, Sports Illustrated, Elle, and ABC News.
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