*Beginning at age 30, the preferred way to screen is with a Pap test combined with an HPV test every 5 years. This is called co-testing and should continue until age 65.
Another reasonable option for women 30 to 65 is to get tested every 3 years with just the Pap test.
Pap smears may be discontinued after a total hysterectomy unless the surgery was performed for cervical pre-invasive or invasive cancer or other uterine cancers, or if you are considered to be at high risk for other reasons; for example, if you are HIV positive (carry the virus that causes AIDS), or have a weakened immune system. In these situations, Pap smears should be continued as determined by your doctor. Women who have had a hysterectomy and no longer need Pap smears should continue to have routine pelvic exams performed by their doctor.*
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Hi, Leslie.
Thank you for your question.
According to the American Cancer Society:
*Beginning at age 30, the preferred way to screen is with a Pap test combined with an HPV test every 5 years. This is called co-testing and should continue until age 65.
Another reasonable option for women 30 to 65 is to get tested every 3 years with just the Pap test.
Pap smears may be discontinued after a total hysterectomy unless the surgery was performed for cervical pre-invasive or invasive cancer or other uterine cancers, or if you are considered to be at high risk for other reasons; for example, if you are HIV positive (carry the virus that causes AIDS), or have a weakened immune system. In these situations, Pap smears should be continued as determined by your doctor. Women who have had a hysterectomy and no longer need Pap smears should continue to have routine pelvic exams performed by their doctor.*
You can find more information here:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/prevention-and-early-detection/cervical-cancer-screening-guidelines.html
Helena
March 5, 2017 - 2:19pmThis Comment
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