Dear turtleshel,

It is recommended that a woman should not have vaginal intercourse or insert anything into her vagina between 24-48 hours before a gynecological visit. Also, it's important not to douche or use any other vaginal preparations for at least 24 hours before the appointment. Anything that is inserted into the vagina can mask vaginal conditions.

A routine gynecological visit often involves a pelvic exam and a Pap test. A Pap test is a procedure to examine the cells of the cervix (the narrow, lower part of a woman's uterus that connects with the vagina) in order to detect infection and hormonal conditions. It can also detect pre-cancerous and cancerous cells. Having sex within 24-48 hours or using vaginal preparations 24 hours before a pap test can affect the accuracy of the test.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.