Pelvic Exams Save Lives!

What is a Pelvic Exam and Why is it So Important?

During a pelvic exam, a doctor examines your vulva and your internal reproductive organs – your vagina, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. The female Naturopathic Doctors at the IV take your comfort as their top priority during this exam!

For some people this exam will include testing for sexually transmitted infections (commonly known as STDs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. It is also a good opportunity to check for other infections such as bacterial vaginitis (BV), yeast overgrowth, or other pelvic health issues.

A very important part of this exam includes a Pap test (also known as a Pap smear). A Pap test checks for abnormal cervical cells. If they are found, and promptly treated, you can stop cervical cancer from developing. Therefore, it is important to follow screening recommendations to ensure you are reducing your risk of developing cervical cancer.

If you have been waiting to get your Pap test done, book your pelvic exam soon!

The Who and When of Pap Tests

If you have a cervix, whether you are a woman, non-binary, or a transgender man, and you are between the ages of 25 and 69, you should be screened for cervical cancer every three years.

  • You should still screen regularly for cervical cancer if
    • You’ve been through menopause
    • You’ve ever been sexually active, even if you are not sexually active right now
    • You’ve had the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
    • You’re in a same-sex relationship
  • You do not need to screen for cervical cancer if
    • You’ve had your cervix removed for any reason (such as total hysterectomy or some gender-affirming surgeries)
    • You are over the age of 69 and your results have always been normal

Book in with one of our female Naturopathic Doctors to get your Pap scheduled. Remember, it CAN be covered by extended health benefits!

Pap Tests at a Glance

  • Regular Pap tests may help prevent cervical cancer by finding cervical cell changes in your body that would become cancer if left untreated
  • A Pap test helps find cervical cancer early, before you have symptoms
  • Screening every three years can reduce your risk of cervical cancer by 70%
  • If cervical cancer is detected at its earliest stage, the chance of survival is more than 85%

In addition to screening every three years, you should look out for any unusual changes to your body. Symptoms like abnormal bleeding, persistent discharge, or pain after sex. If you notice anything unusual it is important to seek medical attention and complete a pelvic exam.

Book your Pap test with one of our female Naturopathic Doctors today by emailing [email protected] or calling 778-726-3722!

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