Abnormal Pap Smears: What Every Woman Needs to Know

I bought this book because I've been dealing with abnormal PAP results for the last 3 years. I was feeling scared and frustrated, not feeling 100% sure of what my doc was explaining, and confused by inconsistent language given with the results. After two painful procedures, and now facing the possibility of a third, I needed reliable information. This book was perfect; directed and on target. After reading it through in one day, I requested my medical records and armed with the book now bristling with Post-It notes, I reviewed my information. I finally feel that I understand what has been going on, and am well prepared to have a really great conversation with my doc on my next appt. Many thanks to the authors!

This book is an easy read .I did find that if you are not HPV positive this book is a little limited.It mainly deals with HPV positive and only briefly goes into 'if you are HPV negative'.It was an informative book on understanding the female organs and their workings.Well worth the money for the book.

Written in clear language, and organized logically - this book is a must for any woman who has first received the news she has an abnormal Pap Smear. It's also good for those of us with on-going issues to better understand terminology and processes, and to see what is current and ahead in the area of HPV/cervical cancer research. I'm definitely suggesting to all of my friends, along with pushing how important it is to get your annual healthy woman exam. I began having abnormal Pap smears. This book definitely helped me understand my journey a bit better, and the connection of HPV/cervical cancer. It also helped with understanding some of the terminology I was told before my colposcopies, LEEPs, and biopsies. After my first doctor suggested a hysterectomy after 2 years of low-grade dysplasia and I searched other opinions. This book re-enforces my pushing and visiting other doctors, including a gynecological oncologist who told me to keep testing as long as I have low-grade dysplasia and referred me to a wonderful OB/GYN who encourages questions and uses terminology a non-doctor can understand. This book might have prevented some of the anxiety and perhaps unneeded tests, and definitely will help me better partner with my current doctor. It is key to have a good relationship and communication with your doctor. I finally came back with a normal biopsy, and I'm hoping for more of the same in the future.

Pap smears detect cervical cancer but there's a major difference between different types of abnormal pap smears, from full-blown cancers to results which are atypical yet benign. Abnormal Pap Smears not only helps consumers understand the differences; it also suggests lifestyle changes to reduce the risks of precancers and cancers.

I never fully understood the mystery of pap smears, and I was never really sure that I could trust the results (happily, always negative). This book fleshed out my understanding of paps, and answered the many questions I have had about them but never could quite articulate to my doctor. Further, little did I realize the significant link between sexually transmitted viruses and diseases and their potential, long-term effects until I read this book. I am much better informed now.This book is for every woman.