Can I turn down...

[KatieB]

a Pap at my first prenatal (which is tomorrow afternoon)? I had one in the Spring - it came back a bit weird so I had to have a colpo and a biopsy but nothing was wrong. I would rather not have one and since they are normally done only yearly or so, I see no reason to go through that...

I'm not very good at asserting myself with doctors, which worries me a bit... but I really find it dreadfully unnecessary at this point. The first one I had during my last pregnancy also came back abnormal, but was also nothing. I see a pattern here and would just as soon forego it for the time being...

Anyone?

[freckles]

a Pap at my first prenatal (which is tomorrow afternoon)? I had one in the Spring - it came back a bit weird so I had to have a colpo and a biopsy but nothing was wrong. I would rather not have one and since they are normally done only yearly or so, I see no reason to go through that...

I'm not very good at asserting myself with doctors, which worries me a bit... but I really find it dreadfully unnecessary at this point. The first one I had during my last pregnancy also came back abnormal, but was also nothing. I see a pattern here and would just as soon forego it for the time being...

Anyone?

No. The pap this time around will test for any bacteria and diseases that may harm the baby during delivery.

[KatieB]

What disease might I have developed in the last 6 months that could be a problem? (I ask honestly, that seems a bit nutty to me.)

I read an article this evening that said a Pap was only necessary if you had not recently had one...

And I imagine I will be subject to more pelvic exams than I can count as the months wear on - what's the urgency?

[freckles]

What disease might I have developed in the last 6 months that could be a problem? (I ask honestly, that seems a bit nutty to me.)

I read an article this evening that said a Pap was only necessary if you had not recently had one...

And I imagine I will be subject to more pelvic exams than I can count as the months wear on - what's the urgency?

Not to be rude or offend you in any way - but you never know :shrug: Dh's are unfaithful and wives are unwitting all the time. Doctors can't take it on your word, or on dh's word, that there is no chance you could have picked up anything - better safe than sorry. Bacterial infections and STD's can cause problems with the baby, both in utero and during delivery. Ask your doctor, he/she will tell be able to tell you more.

[KatieB]

I already have to have blood tests though - I understand your point about never being 100% certain though.

I guess I will just have to ask tomorrow - yaay fun lol.

[colo1278]

No. The pap this time around will test for any bacteria and diseases that may harm the baby during delivery.
For one, Bacterial Vaginosis can send you into preterm labor. http://www.babycenter.com/refcap/pregnancy/pregcomplications/1427335.html This can be a very "mild" infection that many women don't even notice.

http://www.cdc.gov/STD/BV/STDFact-Bacterial-Vaginosis.htm
it's also good to have a follow up pap after an unusual result.

[Carrie]

I agree with the others. I'd have it done...I know they are a pain, but it's just a few uncomfortable minutes to have peace of mind.

[donnajo]

Why take any chances? Better safe than sorry. You never want to look back and regret.

[H&G'sMom]

I had a PAP done in October and got pg in December and my first real appt was in Feb. She looked at my chart and noted that I had just had one done so she didn't do one. Granted, my was normal in Oct.. nothing strange. It is worth at least talking to your dr about - he/she will tell you what they think should be done in your situation.

[KatieB]

I had it done anyway, to be on the safe side. My new doc told me they don't do biopsies or anything like that during pregnancy anyway, so if it does come back abnormal, it won't be an issue until after the baby is born.

Thanks all :D.