Why Annual Pap Smears Matter: A Woman’s Cancer Journey
Doctores Especialistas on October 15, 2025. Visit author social media
Share
Marne Loosenort was diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer after experiencing hip pain and unusual bleeding during menopause. The diagnosis came as a complete shock, as no one in her family had a history of cancer-related illnesses. It all started when she had flu, and even after recovering, she didn’t feel completely well. Concerned, she visited her doctor, who ran some tests revealing that she had anemia. A subsequent CT scan uncovered an 11-centimeter tumor.
Her doctor referred her to a gynecologic oncology specialist, where additional tests confirmed the diagnosis. After confirming the results, the oncologist outlined a treatment plan that included chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Surgery was not recommended due to potential health risks. During her treatment, Marne experienced some side effects, but she never lost her hair and now reports feeling much better.
Reflecting on her journey, Marne admits her only regret was skipping regular check-ups. She emphasizes the importance of annual Pap smears and urges women not to make the same mistake she did. If she had followed the routine screenings, cervical dysplasia might have been detected before it developed into cancer. Today, she shares her story to encourage early detection and proactive healthcare.