Pre-op Pap

[alejcerra 12]

I had my pre-op pap come back and they told me there wasn't enough cells...and I have to wait 3-4 months to get it redone....has this happen to anyone? This is literally the last thing I needed before I got my surgery date. I do see my dr for my follow up on pre op appts in two weeks...

[Sharon1964 2,530]

Well, that's the usual protocol, but that doesn't mean they can't give it a second try now.

If your sample didn't have enough endocervical cells, and if you're pre-menopausal (I don't know your age), your doctor can prescribe vaginal estrogen cream which can make your endocervical cells "more available."

If it just didn't have enough total cells, I would do a repeat pap now and if it comes back the same, wait the 2-3 months and try again.

Not a doctor, yada yada yada.

[Tssiemer1 549]

You had to do a pre op pap? Why?

[alejcerra 12]

The cells apparently take 3-4 months to cultivate again.

I needed a pap bc it's been more than 3 years since my last one was on file. Cervical and ovarian cancer run in my family and I've already had precancerous cells removed about 8 years ago.

I emailed the doctor because I was concerned it would interfere with my pre op and he said it wasn't an issue, and wouldn't impede my surgery date.