Download Do you need a Pap test - Families First Health and Support Center

Frequently Asked Questions
About Cervical Cancer Screening
In March of 2012, the US Preventative Task Force released new guidelines for cervical cancer
testing. Below are some frequently asked questions related to cervical cancer screening, which
is also commonly called the Pap test or Pap smear.
What is the Pap test?
The Pap test (or Pap smear) is a test that detects changes in the cervix that can become
cancerous. The HPV test looks for the virus that can cause these changes. These tests can be
done at the same time. Both of these tests are offered here at Families First for a reduced fee or
maybe even for free. Ask your provider, nurse or medical assistant today if you need a Pap or
HPV test and how much it would cost.
Who needs a Pap test?
Women should start getting regular Pap tests at age 21. If you are aged 30 years or older, you
may choose to have the HPV test along with the Pap test. Both are performed at the same time.
Usually women should continue to be tested until they are 65 years old, even if they think they
are too old to have a child or they are no longer having sex.
How often should I get a Pap test?
This varies from person to person, so ask your health care provider how often is appropriate for
you. It might be every three to five years, instead of every year as was recommended in the past.
When should women stop getting Pap tests?
Women who are older than 65 and have had regular Pap tests for several years or have had their
cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous conditions, like fibroids, may
not need any more Pap tests. Ask your provider if you are unsure.
If I don’t need a Pap test, does this mean I don’t need to get a pelvic exam at all?
The Pap test only tests for cervical cancer. It does not test for ovarian, uterine, vaginal, or vulvar
cancer. Therefore, you should still get regular pelvic exams to screen for those cancers and if
you have signs or symptoms that are unusual for you.
What’s the difference between a Pap test and a pelvic exam?
A pap test is sometimes done during a pelvic exam. It is a test that screens for cervical cancer.
To do a pap test, your provider uses a brush to take a sample of cells from the cervix and sends
that to a lab to be looked at under a microscope. The cells are evaluated for changes indicative
of cervical cancer.
A pelvic exam screens for infections and other female cancers, including vaginal, vulvar, uterine
and ovarian cancer. This is when the provider looks at the vulva, vagina, and cervix for any skin
changes that could be cancer. The provider then uses two hands (one inside the vagina and one
on top of the abdomen) to feel for any masses in the pelvis. This test checks the uterus, ovaries,
bladder and rectum.
When should one get a pelvic exam?
This varies from person to person. Adolescents and women in their early 20s are recommended
to have a pelvic exam every year. They may be more (or less) often depending on symptoms
and risk for infection (such as having a new sexual partner, multiple sexual partners, or a sexual
partner with multiple sexual contacts). Pelvic exams should be continued yearly until a woman
and her provider decide otherwise.
Why are they no longer recommending a Pap test for younger women and teens?
Long term scientific studies have shown that annual Pap testing is not necessary for women
under 21 years old. HPV is a virus that is very common in young women. Some types of HPV
can cause changes on a woman’s cervix that can lead to cervical cancer over time. Women
under 21 are able to naturally fight off HPV. It is only when the virus remains in the cervical cells
for many years that it can cause cervical cancer. It can take 10-15 years or more for abnormal
cells to turn into cancer.
At what age (s) is cervical cancer more common?
Cervical cancer is more common in women over 30 years old.
What if I had the HPV vaccine?
If you have had the HPV vaccine, you should follow the same guidelines as everyone else.
What if I’ve never been sexually active?
You should still have regular Pap testing starting at age 21 until you are 65, unless your provider
tells you otherwise.
Why are they no longer recommending a Pap test every year for women over 21 years old?
Studies have shown that women over 21 may only need to be tested every 3-5 years if their Pap
test was normal.
Should anyone get tested every year?
Certain high risk woman should have a yearly Pap test. These are women who are HIV positive,
immunocompromised, and those exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) when their mother was
pregnant with them.
What if my sister or mother had cervical cancer? Is it hereditary?
No, cervical cancer is not hereditary like other cancers.
What else can I do to prevent cervical cancer?
Go to your appointments as recommended by your provider. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Do not
smoke. Smoking increases your chances of getting cervical cancer. If you already smoke, talk to
your provider about ways to help you quit.
References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2012, UptoDate, 2012, USPTF
Guidelines for Cervical Cancer Screening, March 2012