Women’s Care in Fort Lauderdale

Our women’s care specialists recommend that women between the ages of 21 and 65 schedule a pap smear every 3 to 5 years. Patients above the age of 65 may not need to schedule screenings as often if their results have routinely shown no signs of abnormal cervical cells.

If your pap smear results come back as “abnormal”, this does not necessarily mean you have cervical cancer, as HPV may cause these changes. Our clinic offers ongoing women’s care in Fort Lauderdale to provide early cervical cancer detection, maximizing your treatment options and their success rates.

To perform a self-breast exam, start by visually inspecting your breasts in the mirror for any changes in size, shape, or skin texture, including the nipples. Then, standing up with one arm behind your head, use the pads of your fingers to press gently yet firmly in a circular motion, covering the entire breast from underarm to cleavage and from top to bottom. Repeat this process lying down, which spreads the breast tissue thinly, making it easier to detect any abnormalities.

Conduct this exam monthly and report any unusual findings to your healthcare provider immediately. Remember, this is an important complementary practice to regular clinical exams and mammograms.

Galt Dermatology & Concierge Medicine offers preventative women’s care in Fort Lauderdale for cervical and breast cancer. The cervical cancer screening process consists of a pap smear—a process of collecting sample cells from your cervix. The procedure is swift and may cause some discomfort, but it usually isn’t painful. It’s recommended to have the test done when you’re not on your period for clearer results. Post-test, you can go about your day as usual, though minor spotting or cramping is possible. The cell sample is sent to a lab for analysis, with results typically ready within a few weeks, aiding in the early detection of any abnormal cells to prevent cervical cancer.

In-office breast cancer screening typically comprises a Clinical Breast Exam (CBE), where a healthcare provider examines the breasts for any lumps or abnormalities. Risk factors are evaluated, and patients might receive guidance on performing self-examinations. Depending on findings from the CBE or risk assessments, further diagnostic tests such as mammography, ultrasound, or breast MRI could be recommended to identify early signs of breast cancer, aiming for timely and effective treatment.