PAP Form Questions and Answers

In order to establish a reproductive health care history in your medical record, we are asking you to complete the form. As with all medical records, the form will be retained in strict confidence by us. No access to this document by outside parties will be granted without your specific written consent. For many issues related to women’s health care, we have prepared information pamphlets and designed programs to aid you in learning about your body and yourself. Please feel free to ask us about any of these subjects.

Below are commonly asked questions and answers about this form:

  1. I’m uncomfortable with some of the questions. Do I have to answer all of them?
    No, if you are uncomfortable with a question and feel reluctant to answer it, you may leave it blank and discuss it with your practitioner, if you wish.
  2. Why is it necessary to know the age at which I first had sex?
    Age at first intercourse can indicate that a woman is at greater risk for infections and sexually transmitted diseases (and other gynecological problems). Additionally, some young women may have experienced unwanted sexual experiences earlier in their lives and they may wish to discuss them at this time.
  3. I’m uncomfortable with the question about masturbation, rape, and other issues. What is this all about?
    Our intention in asking this question is to provide an opportunity to discuss any one of these sensitive issues with a medical professional. These issues can directly affect your present and future sexual expression and relationships.
  4. What is DES and what does it have to do with my health?
    DES stands for Diethylstilbesterol, which is a synthetic estrogen given to some pregnant women between 1940 and the lat 1960’s in order to prevent miscarriage. It has been found that this medication may put the children of women who took DES at risk for certain medical conditions.