After treatment, paps might be abnormal even if 'cured!" - Cancer: Breast Message Board

lobo1977 · 03-25-2005, 02:21 PM

Just read this today on a medical site - I had no idea this was true!

"Pap smears may not return to normal for some time following these treatments because of the trauma to the cervical cells. Followup Pap and Colposcopy procedures every 4 months are suggested."

So, maybe its best to wait on a 2nd procedure (should the followup pap not be clear) until you've given it some time ...I figured you would go back 3 months after and if it wasnt clean, just re do the procedure.. but now that may not be the right thing --- Its hard to just wait though, but I guess a few more months wont hurt .

ElenaK · 03-25-2005, 08:51 PM

It is always the same difficult dilemma, isn't it? Re-do the procedure in case the condition progresses and run the risk of overtreatment? Or wait an extra few weeks for the healing to complete and/or the condition to regress?

It is a tough one...

cutigergirl · 03-28-2005, 09:47 PM

See my doc has told me to wait 6 months because of this-I wanted to go in earlier which he said is fine..but...he really says 6 months gives you the best picture of what is going on

carrie

lobo1977 · 03-28-2005, 11:55 PM

It depends what you had done. If just a leep, and you have clear margins, 6 months is ok (if you stress though why not just go in at 3 and 6 months - its just a pap

I for example had part laser, so I need the dr to check those areas via colpo, as I couldnt get samples in that location --- so I need a checkup at 3 months.

I am going in every 4 months for paps from now on. Its no big deal - many places offer free paps too (clinics etc) so i figure , why not ?

layla= · 03-29-2005, 02:47 AM

Im glad I read this one, I was gonna go next month for a pap, i think i will leave it now, If I get an ab pap then it will just freak me out.Thanks girls x