What Tests Do I Need to Check for Cervical Cancer?
Here are recommended guidelines for how often you should receive Pap and HPV tests.
Most cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a common virus that rarely causes symptoms and usually resolves on its own. Some types of HPV, however, can increase a woman's risk for cervical cancer. As a result, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists revised their screening guidelines for cervical cancer to include an HPV test for some women.
Keep in mind that while Pap smears, or a combination of Pap and HPV testing, is adequate for screening cervical cancer in most women, it is still important to schedule an annual gynecologic exam to check your vulva, vagina, uterus, ovaries and breasts.
Here are cervical screening guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists:
- Age 21 to 29: Get your first screening for cervical cancer by age 21. Retest every three years until age 30.
- Age 30 to 65: A Pap test and an HPV test every five years is preferred. A Pap test alone every three years acceptable.
- Age 65 to 70: If you do not have a history of moderate or severe dysplasia, you can stop Pap tests if you've had three consecutive negative tests or two consecutive negative co-tests (Pap test and HPV test) within the past ten years, preferably if the last test was within five years.
- After a hysterectomy: You may need to continue cervical cancer screenings, depending on why your hysterectomy was performed, whether your cervix was removed or if you have a history of moderate to severe dysplasia.
An annual Pap test is recommended if you have had a history of cervical cancer, are infected with the HIV virus, have a weakened immune system or were exposed to the drug DES before birth.
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Date Last Reviewed: October 16, 2018
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
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