Endometriosis is a painful condition found in the uterus and one of the leading causes of infertility that affects about 10% of women.
In commemoration of endometriosis month, The Loretto Hospital is offering free pap smears for uninsured or underinsured residents of Austin and surrounding communities through the end of March.
Endometriosis was first thought to have been a condition that occurred more frequently in white women, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. This early and often incorrect assumption has led to Black women frequently left untreated and undiagnosed for this painful disorder that can lead to lifelong effects on fertility and sexual health.
While pap smears alone are not able to diagnosis endometriosis, the hope is that by offering this routine and vital service, Loretto hopes to open up lines of communication between women and their physician.
“We are dedicated to providing the community with the preventative steps needed to take control of their health, like pap smears,” said Dr. Lois Clarke. “Starting an honest dialogue with your physician is the first step to ensuring your heath for years to come.”
To learn more about same day pap smears and who qualifies, call at (833) TLH-LOVE or visit https://www.lorettohospital.org.