Bet you didn't know that there are ways that you can prepare for a Pap test! A few simple steps can lead to more accurate results and a healthy cervix. Avoiding certain activities before a Pap smear, when you have the test, and what you tell your doctor are all vital to having a successful pap smear! Check out these common mistake women make when it comes to their Pap smear...

Speaking of Pap smears, I recently came across the results of a 2006 study that say that Pap smears are just as accurate if women keep their feet on the exam table instead of using stirrups. The study also pointed out that women were generally less uncomfortable as well when not using the stirrups. Personally, I had had Pap smears with and without stirrups and was much more comfortable sans stirrups.

The study sparks the question of whether women would be more inclined or at least less anxious to have a Pap smear if stirrups weren't utilized?

Many women are surprised to learn that chemotherapy may have an effect on their nails during treatment. Both fingernails and toenails can become brittle, dry, discolored, develop lines or ridges, and may even fall off.

Nail damage is a common side of chemotherapy drugs belonging to the taxane group. For women being treated with chemotherapy for cervical cancer, this would mean drugs like docetaxel and paclitaxel. Taxanes work by inhibiting the growth of tumors. Learn how to manage and care for nails during chemotherapy...

Cervical Cancer and Chemotherapy

• Treating Cervical Cancer with Chemotherapy
  
• Is Chemotherapy Painful?
  
• Dry Skin: A Side Effect of Chemotherapy

Will your insurance company pay for a wig due to chemotherapy induced hair loss?

When women vist a wig shop after losing their hair to chemotherapy, they are often surprised to find out just how expensive wigs are! A quality wig can cost several hundred dollars. This of course, is in addition to treatment related costs that are not covered by the insurance provider. What a lot of women don't know is that many insurance companies will cover the cost of the wig. In fact, many wig shops will file a claim with your insurance provider for you!

Sounds good, right? Well, there are a few things you should know before you head out to shop. First thing, you need a prescription. Second, you need the prescription worded carefully! Read more about how to get your wig covered by your insurance provider...

When my doctor's office called and told me my Pap results were abnormal, my heart sank. My first thought was cervical cancer. I was later told that my Pap test results were ASCUS, but because I didn't know what ASCUS meant, it made me even more frightened.
Angie, 31

Angie's experience is very common. Women who have had normal Pap smears for years suddenly have an abnormal Pap smear and panic. ASCUS pap results are common, but are they a reason to worry? Here's what you need to know about ASCUS Pap results...