By Nuria Perez Gordillo, WHNP
Between work, caregiving, and full calendars, finding time to schedule a well-woman exam or a Pap test can be challenging. I’ve been in that exact position myself, working full time and wondering how in the world I’d squeeze in my own appointment. That’s not uncommon: According to cancer.gov, the percentage of women overdue for cervical cancer screenings rose from 14 percent in 2005 to 23 percent in 2019. Factors like race, living in a rural area, or identifying as LGBTQ+ can also increase the likelihood of being behind on screenings.
Still, it’s essential for women to come in for regular screenings and annual well-woman exams. Early detection truly saves lives. To make it easier to access care, MCHC Health Centers is now offering Pap tests and women’s health exams on the second Saturday of each month at our Hillside location as part of a monthly clinic we’re calling Pap-a-Palooza. These appointments provide opportunities to receive the care that supports your long-term health.
Why well-woman exams and cancer screenings matter
When caught early, cervical cancer is highly treatable because it usually grows slowly. Regular screenings like Pap tests provide crucial opportunities to detect cell changes before they become serious. The earlier we detect abnormalities, the more options we have for next steps and treatment.
Talk with your medical provider to decide what screening schedule is right for you based on your personal and family health history. In most cases, we recommend:
Yearly well-woman visits starting at age 21. Ages 21-29: Pap test (cytology only) every three years if the results are normal. Ages 30-65: Pap + Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test every five years, HPV test alone every five years, or Pap test alone every three years Over 65: Screening may stop if previous results have been normal, unless there is a history of high-grade cervical precancerous lesions or cervical cancer. Post-hysterectomy (including cervix removal, not due to cancer): Pap tests may be discontinued, but regular pelvic/breast exams should continue.Even if a Pap test isn’t needed every year, annual visits remain important.
What to expect at your appointment
Appointments are required for our Saturday clinics. Call (707) 468-1010 to schedule. These visits aren’t just about cancer screenings; they are a chance to check in on your overall health. Your provider will review your health history, talk through any questions and concerns, and conduct needed exams, which may include a breast exam, pelvic exam, and Pap smear if you are due. A pelvic exam is recommended every year, even if you are symptom-free and not due for a Pap. If you are 40 or older, your provider may also recommend a mammogram.
I know that these appointments can feel awkward. Depending on your personal history, they may even bring up fear or embarrassment. Some patients are apologetic about their bodies, which breaks my heart. There is a lot of stigma around our reproductive health, but I remind my patients: These are just body parts. Caring for them is no different from caring for any other part of the body. Regular exams and screenings help us make proactive decisions about our health and give us the best options for future care.
Your provider will explain each step as they go. The Pap smear, pelvic exam, and breast exam are quick and shouldn’t be painful. Please speak up if you feel discomfort. As providers, we want to be in conversation with you and make the appointment as comfortable as possible.
Well-woman exams are also chances to talk about the HPV vaccine. HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer in women, and it can cause other cancers for men and women. Many people are exposed to HPV at some point in their lives. The HPV vaccine is a powerful, safe, and effective tool in preventing cancer.
We recommend the HPV vaccine for both boys and girls at ages 11 or 12, before they become sexually active, but it is still beneficial up to age 26. Some people ages 27 or older may also benefit. Your provider can help you assess whether it’s right for you.
Even if you have received the HPV vaccine, regular cervical cancer screenings and well-care exams remain important. No matter what preventive measures you’ve taken, check-ups and screenings are the best way to catch issues before they become serious health problems.
Pap-a-Palooza is all about access and empowerment. By offering weekend appointments every month, we hope to make it easier for women to receive the care they need. No matter how long it has been since your last screening or appointment, we welcome you to come in. If we can help even one person get a question answered or catch a concern early, it’s all worth it.
Nuria Perez Gordillo, WHNP, is a women’s health provider at MCHC Health Centers, a community-based and patient-directed organization that provides comprehensive primary healthcare services as well as supportive services such as education and translation that promote access to healthcare. MCHC includes Hillside Health Center and Dora Street Health Center in Ukiah, Little Lake Health Center in Willits, and Lakeview Health Center in Lakeport.
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