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- $Unique_ID{BRK01944}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{When to See the Doctor for Irregular Bleeding}
- $Subject{Doctor Irregular bleed Bleeding period periods Pap test menstruation
- menstruations menstrual cycle cell cells menses irregularity test tests
- testing smear smears}
- $Volume{}
- $Log{
- The Menstrual Cycle*0009101.scf}
-
- Copyright (c) 1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
-
-
- When to See the Doctor for Irregular Bleeding
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-
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-
- QUESTION: I want to visit my physician for a problem with my periods. I
- am bleeding at the wrong time of the month. However the nurse says it would
- be best to come in between my periods so that a good Pap test could be taken
- at the same time. Is she correct in putting me off until then? I think she
- is trying to be helpful, but I don't want to wait.
-
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-
- ANSWER: Under ordinary circumstances, when you are visiting your doctor for a
- routine visit and scheduled Pap smear, the best time to schedule your visit is
- to see your doctor during the two weeks that follow your normal menstrual
- cycle. That time in your cycle provides the best cells and the most accurate
- results. It is also a good time for a thorough breast examination as the
- fullness that may accompany the time of your menses is absent, and breast
- bumps and lumps are easier to detect and evaluate. However, when you have an
- irregularity with your flow, the best time to see your physician is while the
- problem is present, so that it can be observed and evaluated as it is
- happening, and all the appropriate testing can be performed. While the nurse
- may be trying to save you the expenses of an extra visit, your problem
- requires a visit now. A word or two of explanation may help clarify your
- concerns, and the reason you are seeking the appointment as soon as possible.
-
- ----------------
-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
-