Who Should Have a Pap Test and How Often

The good news: Half as many women develop and die from cervical cancer now than they did 40 years ago, and that’s because more women get Pap tests. 

The bad news: Cervical cancer is still the second leading cause of death in women ages 20-39. 

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, and at Comprehensive Primary Care, our staff and providers are helping in the effort to eliminate cervical cancer by promoting regular screening so that more lives are saved. 

Cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable cancers, and Pap smears, which are part of our routine women’s health services, can identify abnormal cells early for better outcomes. 

The need for regular Pap testing

The reason that Pap smears are so effective is that they detect abnormal cervical cells, which can indicate precancerous growth or very early stage cancer. If you have cervical cancer, the sooner you get treated, the better your outcome is likely to be. 

Cervical cancer is caused by exposure to certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is very common and responsible for more than 99% of cervical cancer cases. 

Cervical cancer doesn’t show symptoms in the early stages when treatment works best. This is why having regular Pap tests is so important. It’s also why the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths has decreased in the last 40 years. Doctors now recommend Pap tests on a regular basis. 

Recommended Pap test guidelines

How often you should have a Pap test depends on your age and medical history. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests the following guidelines: 

• Age 21-29: Pap test every 3 years
• Age 30-65: Pap test and HPV test every 5 years, or a Pap test every 3 years
• Age 65 and up: no Pap test required, depending on health history

Women who have a higher risk of cervical cancer than average or who have a weakened immune system may need more frequent Pap smears. Our providers at Comprehensive Primary Care base recommendations for health screenings on both expert guidelines such as those above and your individual circumstances and overall health.

What to expect when you get a Pap test

No one looks forward to a Pap test, but you should know that it’s quick and simple, and part of a routine gynecological exam. You lie on an exam table, your provider inserts a tool called a speculum into your vagina. The speculum creates a clear view of your cervix. 

Your provider then uses a small brush or swab to collect a cell sample from your cervix. You’ll feel a sensation of pressure or scraping, but it’s not painful and it doesn’t last long.

The role of HPV vaccine in Pap testing guidelines

The HPV vaccine significantly lowers your risk of developing cervical cancer. It works best if it’s administered when you’re a preteen, but you can get it up to age 26. Depending on your situation, your doctor may recommend it even after age 26. 

However, you should still have regular Pap smears even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine. The screenings are good preventative care and one of the simplest ways you can protect your cervical health. 

Is it time for your regular Pap test? If so, or if you’re not sure, schedule an appointment at Comprehensive Primary Care — we’re located in Suwanee, Snellville, and Lawrenceville, Georgia — and begin the new year on a healthy note.