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What Does A Pap Test Involve?
Question: Soo someone told me that since I'm sexually active, I need to see a gynecologist for an exam and a pap smear and stuff. But I was also told I don't need to go to a gynecologist until I'm 21. So do I need to wait or should I go and see one?
Brief Answer:
Your friend is correct, but...
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for the question and I am happy to help. Not long ago, before the guidelines for pap smears changed, the typical rule of thumb for starting pap smears was 'three years after the onset of sexual activity or reaching age 21'. Now, the rule of thumb is to just start screening at age 21 regardless of sexual history. So, yes, if you are sexually active now, it would be appropriate to start pap smear screening at age 21.
That being said, I think that there would be additional benefit to seeing an OB/GYN now:
1. Birth control - if you are not on birth control and not planning on a pregnancy, this would be a great visit to discuss options
2. STD screening - there is never anything wrong with getting screened for STD's if you are sexually active. It is not uncommon to carry some infections with minimal to no symptoms
3. To establish care with a clinic so that if there is a problem, it will not take as long to get back in for a visit in the future. Once you are an established patient, it will be easier to access a clinic (usually)
Does this help?
Dr. Tim
Your friend is correct, but...
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for the question and I am happy to help. Not long ago, before the guidelines for pap smears changed, the typical rule of thumb for starting pap smears was 'three years after the onset of sexual activity or reaching age 21'. Now, the rule of thumb is to just start screening at age 21 regardless of sexual history. So, yes, if you are sexually active now, it would be appropriate to start pap smear screening at age 21.
That being said, I think that there would be additional benefit to seeing an OB/GYN now:
1. Birth control - if you are not on birth control and not planning on a pregnancy, this would be a great visit to discuss options
2. STD screening - there is never anything wrong with getting screened for STD's if you are sexually active. It is not uncommon to carry some infections with minimal to no symptoms
3. To establish care with a clinic so that if there is a problem, it will not take as long to get back in for a visit in the future. Once you are an established patient, it will be easier to access a clinic (usually)
Does this help?
Dr. Tim
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
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