Can a doctor read a pap smear during the menstrual cycle?

Answer 1

My doctor told me that they could. I have had an appointment scheduled for a while now and I started my cycle today. I called and told them about it and asked if I should reschedule and they said, "they can do it and they have seen it all." I was like ok.

Answer 2

This is a great question. I would suggest not getting a PAP smear done while you are on your period. Most gynecologists will not perform a PAP smear while you are on your period. The entire point of a PAP smear is for you doctor to check the lining of your cervix to make sure that the cells in your cervix and uterus are normal (amung other things, like checking for HPV- Human Papillomavirus). They use a little brush that looks like a mascara brush and brush some cells off and look at them under a microscope.

If you try to have this procedure done while you are on your period, the blood gets in the way and the cells will not look the same. Not only that, but your doctor would probably prefer to look inside with the naked eye to make sure everything looks normal and healthy as well and the blood is an obstruction.

Just wait a few days and reschedule for when you are not on your period. It saves a trip, because I guarantee that your doc will send you away for another day! Here is a link to understand this subject a little more... http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/pap-test.cfm

Good luck! :)

Answer 3

There are many kinds of abnormal pap smears. The point of the pap smear is the detection of abnormal, precancerous cells on the cervix. Occasionally, other abnormalities are found. If you're worried about your pap smear result, ask your health care provider for more information about your specific case. Some abnormalities require only routine followup in three to five years; others require other types of testing done within months of the smear. Getting a pap smear during your period may result in an unsatisfactory test if bleeding is heavy. Ask your health care provider for advice specific to your test results and pap history.

Answer 4

If bleeding is heavy, the lab to which the pap smear is sent won't be able to read it. However, the work that your doctor does during the physical exam can still happen if you have your period. Talk with your doctor's office to find out if you should go even if you're bleeding, as it will depend on your clinical situation.

Answer 5

It is preferable to get a pap smear after you have had your period--you will get a more accurate reading. Arrange your appointment for the weeks after your period.

Answer 6

Light bleeding will not affect a pap smear. Heavier bleeding will interfere with pap smear results.

Answer 7

Heavy bleeding can interfere with the ability to get a result on a pap smear. Light spotting usually won't interfere.

Answer 8

If you are bleeding heavily, you should delay the pap smear. Excess blood can cause an inadequate smear.

Answer 9

no