Women's Physicians and Surgeons

Pap Smear & PapSure

Pap smears are used as a screening test to help prevent cervical cancer. Cervical cancer cells do not instantly form. The process begins when normal cells go through a series transforming steps. With each step, the cells become more and more dysplastic (precancerous). If untreated, these cells eventually become cancerous. By evaluating cells that are shed from the cervix, pap smears can detect dysplastic cells. In their precancerous stage, these cells can be treated and cervical cancer prevented.

Pap smears have been the mainstay of cervical cancer prevention. Early detection has reduced the incidence of invasive cervical cancer. With the introduction of Thin Prep, the traditional pap smear has been improved. However, even Thin Prep can miss up to 15% of cervical dysplasias. That is why at Women's Physicians and Surgeons, we offer PapSure. PapSure has been shown to detect at least half of the serious cervical dysplasias that are missed by pap smears alone. PapSure is a rapid test and compliments your routine pap smear. At the time of your pap smear, employing a single use UV light, the cervix is visualized under magnification. Abnormal areas will fluoresce, alerting us to their presence. We recommend to anyone with a history of cervical dysplasia, multiple sexual partners, or anyone who desires the extra peace of mind that it provides. Unfortunately, PapSure is not covered by insurance. If you want us to perform the PapSure test in addition to your usual Thin Prep pap smear, there is a $60 fee.