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Krs
Nov 17, 2006, 01:59 AM
Often should a women do a smear test?
I know it depends on your age too.

For example a women in her 20's?

Krs
Nov 17, 2006, 05:39 AM
Someone told me every year, while someone else told me every 2 years until your in your 20s, then once you hit 30 its every year.

J_9
Nov 17, 2006, 05:41 AM
It is important to have the test done yearly once you become sexually active. It is to detect STDs as well as cancer. So, if you wait 2 years, the STD or cancer could be in a well advanced stage.

So the answer is every year.

Krs
Nov 17, 2006, 05:43 AM
Ok Thanks Janine.
I was under the impression it was every 2 years until you are 30. Ok I'm close to 30 as I'm 27 but its been almost 3 years since my last smear, I really ought to fix an appoitment.

Tuscany
Nov 17, 2006, 05:58 AM
And remember about getting a mamogram too when you hit 40. Although my doc has begun doing them even earlier because of the increased number of younger women getting breast cancer

J_9
Nov 17, 2006, 06:01 AM
Yes, 40 for the mamo. I was 32 when I had my cancer, and some docs will do them before 40, but mostly you have to have a family history then.

I really wish they all would start around 30. I am glad your doc does it earlier. Many are too stubborn in my opinion.