Pap Smear Specialist
in Coral Spring, Florida
What is a Pap smear?
When it comes to cancer, it’s rare to catch it in its early stages, but that’s exactly what a simple Pap test does. A Pap test is designed to detect cancerous or precancerous cells on your cervix.
Up until a few decades ago, cervical cancer was one of the leading causes of cancer death among women in the United States. Today, thanks in large part to the Pap test, these numbers have decreased significantly, to about 4,000 deaths a year.
The Pap test is one of the fastest, easiest tests you’ll undergo for your health. During your exam, Dr. Barrionuevo takes a swab of your cervix to collect cells for study in a lab.
How often should I get a Pap test?
Under normal circumstances, Dr. Barrionuevo performs a Pap test according to the following schedule:
- Between ages 21 and 29: Once every three years
- Between 30 and 64: Once every three years without an HPV test OR once every five years along with an HPV test
Once you reach 65, it’s more than likely that Dr. Barrionuevo will discontinue testing.
If you have specific health concerns that he wants to monitor, or your tests show abnormal results, expect Dr. Barrionuevo to test you more frequently.
What do abnormal Pap results mean?
If your test shows abnormal cell changes, it’s not necessarily a cause for concern. It means that an HPV infection is probably present, which your body can handle on its own. Dr. Barrionuevo will test you 3-6 months later to verify that your body removed the infection.
If your second test comes back showing abnormal cell changes again, Dr. Barrionuevo may investigate further with a colposcopy to take a tissue sample of your cervix for biopsy. If there’s still evidence of abnormal cells on your cervix, he treats those cells before they turn into cancer.
To stay one step ahead of cervical cancer, call Coral Springs OBGYN to schedule your Pap test. Or use the online booking tool to request an appointment.
Patient Feedback
Allyson T.
Dr. Barrionuevo was absolutely amazing! First of all, his office is immaculate and very comfortable. He has a TV in each exam room and the waiting room, which made visits a little less drab. He also has an ultrasound machine in every room, so I got to see and hear my baby on EVERY visit. The ladies at check-in/check-out, as well as the nurse, are helpful and kind…they learned my name and made my visits personable from beginning to end. I delivered my son during the COVID-19 Pandemic. He reassured me through a very anxious time and made my pregnancy as enjoyable as it could have been. He was prompt, calm, patient and encouraging during my delivery. Overall…a 10 out of 10! I would recommend him to anyone who might be expecting!
Kim W.
Dr Barrionuevo saw me first during my first trimester of pregnancy. I’m so glad I chose him to treat me during this time. He is by far the best OBGYN ever and I have two other kids. He is patient, caring and takes the time to explain everything in details so you are left with a peace of mind. He delivered our daughter on 8/22 and again the level of professionalism and caring disposition is nothing more than amazing. I would recommend him to everyone. The staff is also amazing: Grace, Liliana and Sonia. My prenatal appointments was always pleasant. More doctors need to strive to be like him as he is the epitome of what world class is. Thanks for everything Dr. B and Staff.
Anabel G.
Dr. Barrionuevo delivered my son & it is obvious he is a very competent physician. He exudes confidence and put me at ease. I felt blessed to have him as my doctor….he also has the best bedside manner….always available to answer question & he is very patient & doesn’t rush his patients. He is simply the best!
