OT question for the ladies...

Can you get a pap if you're having your monthly cycle? Luckily it has never happened to me so far but I think my yearly may be scheduled during my period. Should I skip my cycle with pills to avoid having it at the monthly appointment? Should I reschedule?

sorry if this is TMI

I was told you could but it might give you a false result and then you would have to reschedule it anyway.

I'm not sure. I've always rescheduled when this would have been the case. I would call the doctor and ask, or just skip it will birth control pills if you want to.

And it's not TMI. We talk about our bowel movements all day. haha. :)

actually a friend told me that she had this situation and her Dr told her to come in anyway, that it was actually better for some reason? i'd call and see if it's an issue.

I always rescheduled.

i would not skip my pills...i'd either reschedule or call the office to see if it's ok to come in anyway.  skipping the pills will throw your whole system out of whack!

I was always told that the pap results wouldn't be as accurate if you were currently menstruating.  How much trouble would it be to reschedule? 

If you have a heavy flow it would likely be better to reschedule the exam. On "light" days I don't think it particularly interferes with the gyno's probing/cell collections. It's best, though, to ask your gyno about scheduling routine check-ups; then you'll know their recommendations/preferences-- for future reference. / Old Hat (30 yrs with left-sided UC; presently in remission taking brandname Colazal)