Health Care Is Self-Care: 5 Critical Screenings Women Should Prioritize

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women's health screenings

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Test for HPV

Pap smears and HPV tests are not the same, however, it is common to have your doctor run both tests at the same time – otherwise known as co-testing. It is recommended for women 30 and up – even women who have had regular pap smears – to have an HPV test. Keep in mind that HPV can remain dormant, showing no symptoms (i.e. changes in cervical cells or warts), but if your doctor tests you and finds you do have HPV, she may decide you should come in for more frequent pap smears. According to the Office On Women’s Health, an estimated 80 percent of women will contract at least one form of HPV in their lives, and you can contract more than one. Having multiple sexual partners greatly increases one’s risk of contracting HPV.

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