Pap Smear Testing Clinic in Eugene, OR

A Pap smear test is performed to screen for abnormal cells. This procedure is relatively straightforward and involves the collection of a small sample of cells from the cervix. Regular Pap smear tests are important for women’s health, as they can help detect cervical cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable. It is recommended that women between the ages of 21 and 65 undergo Pap smear testing every three years, although the recommended frequency may vary based on individual risk factors and medical history. To find out if it’s time for your next Pap smear, schedule a consultation with a reputable gynecologist near you.

A Pap smear is used to screen for cell changes on the cervix that are precancerous or cancerous. During the process, the doctor uses an instrument known as a speculum to examine the vagina and the cervix, as well as collect cells or mucus from the surface of the cervix. The sample will be examined under a microscope to check for abnormalities.

As detecting cell abnormalities early allows for prompt intervention and treatment, Pap smear testing is an essential and proactive component of women’s healthcare. By getting tested regularly, you ensure that any problems that arise are caught at an early stage. If it has been a while since your last Pap smear, it’s encouraged that you see a women’s health specialist for a check-up.

Generally, women between the ages of 21 and 65 should receive Pap smear tests every few years, with three-year intervals being the norm. However, your healthcare provider may advise you to come in more frequently if you have certain risk factors, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, a family history of cervical cancer, or a weakened immune system.

It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding how often you should receive a Pap smear. By doing so, you are taking essential steps to protect yourself from a preventable disease. According to the CDC, as many as 93% of cervical cancers can be prevented through regular screenings and HPV vaccination.

If your Pap smear test result is abnormal or positive, it means that cell changes were discovered on your cervix. It does not explicitly mean that you have cervical cancer. Depending on whether the changes are low-grade or high-grade, the doctor will explain to you what the next steps are. If the cell changes are minor, the doctor may recommend a wait-and-monitor approach.

On the other hand, if the cell changes are classified as high-grade, further diagnostic procedures will be recommended to assess the extent of the changes and determine the best course of treatment. Follow-up tests for a positive Pap smear result may include an additional Pap smear, an HPV test, a colposcopy, or a biopsy.

While receiving a positive Pap smear result can be distressing, it’s important to remember that early detection and intervention allow for better treatment outcomes. Your doctor will offer guidance, support, and comprehensive care throughout the evaluation and the treatment process.

The cost of a Pap smear depends on your insurance coverage, the provider you choose, and whether you receive additional services, such as a pelvic exam or HPV screening, at the same time. Without health insurance, the average cost of a Pap smear test ranges between $40 and $125. On average, the combined cost of a pelvic exam and a Pap smear test is approximately $330 without insurance.

As these screenings are an important component of preventative care, many health plans offer significant coverage for Pap smear tests.

To make screenings and care as affordable as possible, our clinic accepts a variety of health insurance plans, such as Cigna, Health Net, United Health Care, First Choice Health Network, Providence, and Kaiser, among others. If you have any questions about the prices of services, the insurance plans accepted, or the billing process, our dedicated team is here to provide clarity and support. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 911 Country Club Rd Suite 222, Eugene, OR 97401. We serve patients from Eugene OR, Lowell OR, Cottage Grove OR, Coburg OR, Springfield OR, Creswell OR, Junction City OR and the surrounding areas.