Pap Smear Specialist

Some women may choose to forego yearly Pap smears but the healthcare specialists at Embry Women’s Health in Mesa, Arizona consider it a valuable screening tool for detecting changes that may signal the future development of cervical cancer. Call to schedule an appointment for your annual physical and an in-depth discussion regarding preventive health measures such as the Pap smear.

Pap Smear Q&A

Why get a Pap smear?

The Pap smear is a simple, painless test that can screen for changes in your cervical tissue that may eventually lead to cervical cancer. Most Pap smears come out perfectly normal. An abnormal Pap smear gives your practitioner reason to monitor your cervical health more closely for a time, which gives her the opportunity to treat the underlying problem long before cancer becomes an issue. Most precancerous issues are easily treated when noted early.

What’s the test like?

It takes just a few minutes to complete and is typically part of your pelvic exam. The nurse practitioners at Embry Women’s Health understand what it’s like to have the test and spend the time it takes to make you feel comfortable, whether it’s your first or 21st exam. You’ll lie back on a padded exam table with your feet in stirrups. The practitioner will use a speculum to open your vagina so that she can have a better view of your cervix. She’ll then take a swab of the cervical tissue and send it off for analysis. It’s generally recommended you avoid douching or sexual intercourse 2-3 days before the Pap smear because foreign substances in the vagina can interfere with the accuracy of a Pap smear.

How often do I need one?

Your medical history, current health concerns, and age all play a role in determining how frequently you should have a Pap smear. Many healthcare providers recommend you have your first pap smear when you become sexually active or by age 21. After that, every 2 years is the normal recommendation, but that differs if you’ve ever had an abnormal Pap smear. In that case, your healthcare provider may want to see you back every 4-6 months until she’s sure the problem has cleared.

What if my Pap smear is abnormal?

If your Pap test remains abnormal after a second test, or the first results are concerning due to the type of abnormality noted, your practitioner may do further testing with colposcopy, a painless test that uses a tiny camera inserted into the vagina and up to the cervix that allows her to get a closer look at the cervical tissue. She’ll also take a tissue sample for biopsy at this time to discover more about the abnormal cells discovered during a biopsy.

OUR PATIENTS SAY

I first chose to come to Embry Womens Health because it was near my home and they took my insurance. I’ve been coming back because JoEllen is AMAZING! The whole office is so welcoming and comforting, I’ve moved 20 miles away and I STILL go to see JoEllen for all of my women’s healthcare. I will literally plan my days off around an appointment so I can continue being a patient here.
I can’t say enough good things about Embry Women’s Health and hope to be able to be a patient for life!

5 Stars – Yelp – 11/13/2019

MAGGIE S.

I still love this place. It’s my second year as a patient here, and they still treat me so well. Every concern that I had was taken seriously and my doctor gave me some things to help with a couple of them. The office also isn’t really cold (which I’ve found to be a problem at some offices) so you won’t be freezing during your exam. She’s definitely the best doctor I have been to and recommend to every woman to look into coming here. Also, all of your test results are available online through a patient portal, and you can also schedule new appointments and fill out all of your patient information forms ahead of time on there. This makes checking in for your appointment super quick and easy.

5 Stars – Yelp – 10/31/2019

SHANA E.

This was my first visit at this office and it was so much better then a visit I’ve had at a different gynecologist. The ladies were genuinely friendly and helpful and all very knowledgeable. They make you feel comfortable and safe. It’s so hard to find a gynecologist that fits your needs and I’m very happy to say I found mine.

5 Stars – Yelp – 4/10/2018

KELLY M.

Insurance

Embry Women’s Health is committed to providing quality, affordable health care. We’re in-network with all major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare. No insurance? No problem. We offer a simple fee schedule for those who wish to pay out-of-pocket. Click the button below for our complete list and more information:

Embry Women’s Health is no longer accepting insurance and will be a self-pay practice. We understand that our decision to no longer accept insurance may come as a disappointment. However, we carefully deliberated and concluded that this change was in the best interest of our practice.

Self Pay Prices:

New Patient Appointment: $200

Established Patient Appointment: $100

Self Pay Package Pricing coming soon!

If you have insurance, we will still send your information to any laboratories so they can still bill your insurance for testing.

TESTIMONIALS

Words from our patients

JoEllen is AMAZING! Not only is she professional- she makes your whole experience comfortable. If you’re looking for a professional that never judges your situation and treats you very well- I would definitely recommend this office!

5 Stars – Yelp

Patient Image Yelp Layna HLayna H., Yelp

It is refreshing to meet a practitioner who sees the whole patient and not just a series of symptoms. JoEllen is willing to spend the time to ask questions and really listen to the responses. I have seen JoEllen several times and I have always appreciated how much time she spends with each appointment and her pragmatic approach with solutions.  I feel like my health drives the appointment and not the schedule. Finding JoEllen’s practice was like finding a needle in a haystack, a caring practitioner who encourages patients to listen to their bodies and to be their own best advocate.

5 Stars – 10/11/2018

Patient Image Kathy NKathy N., Yelp

Friendly staff. JoEllen is incredibly kind, patient and answers all of my questions whenever I see her. I don’t feel like I am being rushed when I am there, it is very nice.

5 Stars – 10/4/2018

Patient Image Ashley DAshley D., Yelp

I was super impressed. NP Eva was wonderfully personable and professional. Front desk staff (thanks, Mia) was kind and thoughtful. They have snacks and drinks in the waiting room. It’s super clean and the view is lovely. It sits right on the lake at Dobson Ranch.

5 Stars – 5/24/2021

“I started seeing Joellen earlier this year and I have had nothing but good experiences every time I have gone back. She is very down to earth and listens to any concerns. I would highly recommend Embry Womens Health.”

5 stars – 09/28/2018

Patient Image Jeannie DJeannie D., Yelp