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Medical Frequently Asked Questions


1. How often should I have a PAP smear for cervical cancer?
Women who have a history of abnormal PAPs in the past need a PAP every year. If you have never had an abnormal PAP and you have a steady partner who does not have any other partners you are at a lower risk of having an abnormal PAP and only need to have a PAP every three years. If you are over forty or have a risk for other hereditary diseases you may need to see your practitioner more frequently.


2. I had a hysterectomy for non-cancerous reasons, do I still need to have a PAP smear?
No. As long as you have a steady partner and are not at risk for vulvar cancer that may be caused by human papal virus (venereal warts). Don’t forget that you still need to have an annual breast exam and routine health checks for blood pressure and heart disease, especially if you are over forty.


3. When should I see a health care provider is I think I may be pregnant?
If you are not using any birth control method and have regular periods you should see your health practitioner as soon as possible to confirm your pregnancy. There are early complications that can be detected.


4. I have been very emotional, not sleeping well and cry easily. What is wrong with me?
You may have the signs of depression. Individuals in Alaska are at highest risk for depression especially in the fall, winter and early spring. Depression is caused by a depletion of serotonin, (the “feel good” hormone in the brain). Depression is most often hereditary or situational. Call your health care provider if you are having changes in your mental attitude.


5. I have a teenage daughter. At what age should she begin having an annual women’s examination?
Once a young woman begins sexual activity she is at risk for developing cervical cancer. If you suspect your daughter may be thinking of sexual expression now is the time to think of family planning. Nothing is more devastating than a teen pregnancy and the decisions that surround it!


6. My acne is out of control!
Many adolescents have problems with pimples that soap and water won’t cure. The same can be true for women in the years surrounding menopause. The treatment for both groups is frequently the same. Hormones. Check with your health care provider if over the counter remedies fail.


7. When should I see my health care provider if I have cold symptoms?
See your health care provider if you have a fever that lasts more than 48 hours, the cold lasts more than 10 days, you are having trouble breathing or you have severe ear pain or a severe sore throat.


8. If I am a male, should I get tested for prostate cancer?
The American Cancer Society recommends screening if you are over the age of 45 and high risk. High risk includes African-American men and men whose fathers or brothers developed prostate cancer at an age younger than 65. All other men should start getting annual screenings at age 50.


9. What are symptoms of diabetes?
Increased urination; excessive thirst; increased appetite; weight gain or loss; blurred vision; skin infections; vaginal infections; tiredness; or sores that take a long time to heal may be indicators of diabetes. Your health care provider will take blood and urine samples to measure the level of sugar in your blood.