Going to the gynecologist may seem like a daunting experience, but knowing what to expect and how to prepare for an annual exam can make it an easy routine. Experts say that even women who have already been to the gynecologist should know about recent changes in Pap smear guidelines. Once college students leave the University community and Student Health, finding a new health care provider will be simpler with a few tips.
According to Christine Peterson, director of gynecology at Student Health, women should start annual exams and STD testing at age 18 or as soon as they become sexually active, whichever comes first. However, some young women choose to put off gynecological visits.
"It seems like a lot of unnecessary invasiveness, when I don't have a health problem," second-year College student Sarah Conkright said.
However, these annual visits are important because gynecologists are often the only doctors many women see.
"The annual exam is the general checkup for most women," Peterson said.
Second-year College student Emily Lodge said that although visits to the gynecologist are uncomfortable, "I think it's important to go."
For a first visit, Student Health recommends seeing a member of the Peer Health Educator program, comprised of students trained in providing general health information.
"Students appreciate having another student available to tell them what really happens," said Cynthia Burwell, director of health promotion at Student Health.
When heading off to a gynecology appointment, women can prepare by knowing their medical history and what medications they use. Patients should understand any instructions or diagnoses given by their gynecologist and ask about self-exams before leaving, said Alison Beaver, assistant director of health promotion at Student Health.
"The first time I went, I was very nervous, but the doctor spoke through every step so there weren't any surprises," second year College student Emily Lodge said.
The Pap smear tests for pre-cancerous changes in cervical cells, usually caused by strains of the Human Papilloma Virus. Student Health protocol now requires a Pap smear at age 21 or three years after becoming sexually active, whichever comes first. Women can have Pap tests less frequently after three successive normal Paps. This change from annual Paps starting at 18 is based on recommendations from the American Cancer Society. According to ACS, false-positives, developments in cervical cancer and cost-benefit analysis resulted in this move.
"Eighty percent of HPV infections clear on their own," Peterson said.
ACS advises women between ages 20 and 39 to have clinical breast and pelvic exams at least every three years. Women over 30 should ask about HPV DNA testing.
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