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Maintaining your sexual health is a vital part of most people’s lives. While this can mean being mindful of sexually transmitted infections, it also means taking control of other aspects of our sexual health in order to maintain our overall health.
Smear tests are a great tool for preventing serious long-term health conditions. It’s important for women to get regular smear tests throughout their lives to get a clear view of their health.
But some people worry that other conditions can get in the way. In particular, we often hear people ask whether thrush can prevent women from getting a smear test. But is this true?
In this article, we’ll address this question and cover everything you need to know about getting a smear test.
Are you worried about STIs? Get tested at a clinic near you.
What is thrush?
First things first: what is thrush?
Thrush is a common yeast infection that affects both men and women. It is typically caused by a fungus called candida albicans, which is usually harmless. This fungus grows as part of the vagina’s natural flora. However, sometimes the balance of bacteria in the vagina can become unbalanced, causing an infection. Even though thrush is not recognized as an STI, symptoms can be similar to that of a sexually transmitted infection,
Symptoms of thrush can include:
- White discharge from the vagina or penis (resembling cottage cheese)
- Genital discomfort such as itching, redness, pain, or burning when urinating.
- An unpleasant odor
- Soreness or stinging during sex.
Treatment for thrush often consists of antifungal medicine and creams that can help relieve irritation. Thrush can clear up within a week with appropriate medication.
Think you might have thrush? Get Better2Know’s Urine for Microscopy and Culture Home Test Kit to find out.
What is a PAP smear?
A pap smearalso known as a PAP test, is a cervical screening method used to detect potentially precancerous and cancerous cells in the cervix.
At many Better2Know clinics, confidential HPV and smear tests are provided to give you the comfort and peace of mind you need. The test involves gently removing cells from the surface of the cervix and the area around it using a small brush. These cervical cells are then checked for cervical cancer or cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer.
If the results of an HPV test detect the presence of any high risk strain of the virus, a PAP smear test will follow to examine the cervical cells in greater detail. A PAP smear test may also identify other conditions, such as inflammation or infections.
Can you get a PAP smear if you have thrush?
We understand that health issues like thrush can cause some concern. However, it’s important to note that having thrush does not necessarily prevent you from getting a PAP smear.
A PAP smear test involves sampling cells from your cervix, not the vagina, where thrush is typically present, Therefore, even if you have thrush, you can still go for a smear test.
However, if you are experiencing symptoms of thrush or are currently on medication for thrush, it’s advisable to inform your clinic before your PAP smear appointment. Sometimes, it may be best to rearrange your PAP smear until after the infection has cleared. This is to ensure the most accurate results.
How do I prevent thrush?
At Better2Know, we believe in empowering individuals with the knowledge to maintain their sexual health. You can take several steps to prevent thrush from recurring or ease symptoms:
- Wear cotton underwear
- Avoid sex until thrush has cleared
- Use a condom to prevent transmission to your partner
- Taking showers instead of baths
- Use water or emollient body washes to clean the vagina or penis.
- Dry the area properly after washing.
Get tested today
Even if you think you have thrush, it’s best not to put off a PAP smear for too long. PAP smear tests can help you get a clear view of your cervical health.
Click the button below to schedule a PAP smear and HPV test at a clinic near you. You can also secure an appointment by calling this number listed at the top of this page. A member of our Patient Services team can talk you through your situation and help you get the testing you will need.
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