Thread: Pap Smears
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Old Apr 25, 2009, 12:27 AM
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serafim_etal serafim_etal is offline
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In addition to what Am I Crazy? said...the pressing on the abdomen is specifically checking the ovaries and uterus (as well as a few other organs in the vicinity) for masses. As well as cysts, proper positioning, and for painful areas (which could indicate an issue). The instrument used to open the vagina is called a speculum. This instrument comes in sizes...be sure to ask the doctor to use the smallest one possible. When the actual pap portion of the exam is done, the doctor may use a long q-tip, or more commonly, a long handled brush. The surface of the cervix is brushed to remove some cells...they brush off easily and it should not actually hurt, there may be a feeling of pressure though. Have you ever had a strep-throat culture done? The procedure for removing the needed cells is almost identical (although the throat culture is always a q-tip).
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