The short answer is that you can absolutely be a surrogate once you have a normal Pap, even if past Pap tests were abnormal. You will need a normal Pap test within the last year before starting the surrogacy journey.
A Pap test essentially screens for cervical cancer. The test detects abnormal cells on the cervix that are cancerous or pre-cancerous. It also detects certain infections and inflammation.
A Pap test is the main test for preventing cervical cancer because it detects cervical cell changes typically before they turn into cancer. For this reason, it is the main form of detection and prevention for cervical cancer.
The main cause of an abnormal Pap test is typically HPV, a very prevalent sexually transmitted infection. According to a 2021 study, it is estimated that in 2018, 40% of the overall population in the United States was affected by HPV. It is also estimated that up to 80% of the adult U.S. population has been exposed to HPV at least once.
The immune system of a healthy woman can typically manage the HPV infection without intervention. In fact, 80% of women in their 20’s with an abnormal Pap test will have normal results within one year. The important thing is that one’s healthcare provider monitor the patient after an abnormal Pap test until the results are within normal limits. Of course, additional interventions may be needed to treat the abnormal cells and a medical professional will then recommend the appropriate follow-up testing and treatments.
It is important to also mention that Pap results can detect more than just HPV. They can find abnormal cells associated with bacterial infections (bacterial vaginosis), yeast infections, or simply inflammation from other causes. These causes can also be treated and a normal Pap will result after a few weeks of treatment.
Also critical is to prepare for a Pap test so that the results can be as precise as possible. There are many harmless reasons that a Pap smear can come back abnormal. According to the American Cancer Society, it is important to consider the following before having a Pap test.
- Schedule your test when you do not have your period, preferably five days after your period
- Avoid using tampons, spermicide gels, lubricants, or other vaginal creams or moisturizers
- Do not engage in vaginal sex in the 48 hours leading up to the Pap test
The last thing that anyone wants is a Pap test with a false positive. For this reason, and especially if you are considering becoming a surrogate, accuracy is extremely important. Please consider the American Cancer Society’s guidance before scheduling and completing a Pap test. It could mean the difference between qualifying to become a surrogate immediately or having to postpone the journey for a year or more.
We encourage all prospective gestational carriers to contact Capital Surrogacy and learn more about the process. Please complete the short contact form, we cannot wait to hear from you!
