Women are advised to have an annual Well Woman exam. During the visit a pelvic exam and Pap test may be performed. It is also a good time to discuss other concerns regarding gynecological health. Pap tests (or Pap smears) look for cancers and precancers in the cervix. An human papillomavirus (HPV) tests looks for HPV in cervical cells.  

Recommended Screening Schedule:

• 21-29: A Pap test every 3 years
• 30-65:
• A Pap test every 3 years, OR
• An HPV test every 5 years, OR
• A Pap and HPV test together every 5
• 65+: Can stop screening if regular screenings over the past ten years were done

Follow your healthcare provider’s advice if more testing is needed due to pre-cancer or cancer.

For more information on Pap and HPV tests, visit the Office of Women’s Health website.