Are paps really necessary? - Cancer: Breast Message Board

mycatsmom · 10-11-2003, 02:54 PM

I've read that cervical cancer is caused by a sexually transmitted virus. So...if you've never had sex then you shouldn't need to have pap smears, right? I'm having a check-up Monday & would love to be able to tell the dr to just skip the pap smear. I've had a few in the past & find them very uncomfortable.

PaNik5717 · 10-11-2003, 03:23 PM

HPV is the only KNOWN cause of cervical cancer. That does not mean it is the only cause. Just like other cancers, there can be other contributing factors like smoking, diet, exercise, overall health, and genetics. A pap smear is a small price to pay in order to avoid cancer and chemo/radiation. I am sure that is much less comfortable.

Also, if you have EVER had sex, even if your paps were normal after that, you could have HPV. It can be transmitted even if you use protection and it doesn't have any symptoms. It can even live in your system for years before it starts causing changes in your cervix.

SandyinFL · 10-11-2003, 03:25 PM

If you are older than I would get one anyway. But if it happens to come back abnormal I would be suspicious and would get another pap in 3 months and would not get a coplocopy right away (like your doctor will probably want).

I wish I had your problem!!

Take Care.

Murphy · 10-12-2003, 07:41 PM

Cats, How old are you & why are you having an appt? If
you're at a GYN. then we all agree, it's uncomfortable!
Not the pap but the position. If you're very young &
just having a general physical, I might ? a pap. Hate
to bring this up, but you can get diseases from just
oral sex. Exams are part of life. Be strong.

mycatsmom · 10-13-2003, 09:23 AM

Ok, you are both right, there are worse things in life than a few moments of discomfort. I'll go ahead & have it done. Thanks for your replies.