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Why Get a Pap Smear Before Starting Birth Control?

Doctors' offices and clinics often recommended or require that any woman seeking birth control receives a pap smear. Hormonal birth control (the pill, the patch) requires a prescription and contraceptive devices (such as a diaphragm or IUD) need to be fitted or inserted by a medical professional. Reproductive health professionals view birth control appointments as a convenient opportunity for women to receive a pap smear without the inconvenience of another visit.

  1. What is a Pap Smear?

    • During a pap smear, a medical professional swabs a woman's cervix to extract a sample of cells. These cells are then examined for abnormalities. This procedure is done to detect precancerous cells and help prevent women from developing cervical cancer. The CDC recommends that sexually active women or women over the age of 21 receive an annual pap smear.

    Preventive Screening for Cervical Cancer

    • As a pap smear is an invasive procedure, so many women put off receiving an annual exam to avoid the discomfort. However, approximately 12,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year and 4,000 women die of the disease. Although receiving a pap smear can be an unpleasant experience, it can be a life-saving measure.

    Establish a Relationship with a Medical Professional

    • Getting a pap smear allows a woman to better assess if a medical professional meets her expectations. Does the doctor make every effort to make the procedure as mentally and physically comfortable as possible? Does the patient feel like she can trust this person and receive non-judgmental advice? A good gynecologist should provide more than birth control prescriptions; she should be a partner in addressing gynecological health concerns and encouraging her patients to get regular pap smears.

    STI Testing

    • A pap smear only looks for the presence of abnormal cervical cells, which could indicate HPV. It does not diagnose other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). When a woman receives a pap smear, it is a perfect opportunity to request that her doctor concurrently perform a pelvic exam. A pelvic exam entails an assessment of the health of the reproductive organs and the genital region. A vaginal swab can also be taken to diagnose STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV and syphilis.

    Healthy Habits for the Future

    • Many women, especially young women, have had doctors detect mild abnormalities. These unusual cells do not necessitate an immediate response, but should be monitored to ensure they do not become precancerous. The renewal of birth control prescriptions can be seen as a handy reminder to keep monitoring these cells. Women should be encouraged to establish healthy habits at a young age.

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