How Often Should You Get Screened for Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer screening is one of the most effective ways to catch changes in the cervix before they turn into cancer. Thanks to routine testing, most cervical cancers can be prevented or treated early. Understanding when to start, how often to test, and when you can safely stop is key. Below, you’ll find clear recommendations based on authoritative guidelines and the term cervical cancer screening age to help you stay on top of your health.

Why Screen for Cervical Cancer?

• Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages.
• Screening detects precancerous changes and human papillomavirus (HPV) infections before they become cancer.
• Early detection greatly increases treatment options and survival rates.

Key Guidelines by Age

According to the 2018 American Cancer Society Guideline (Saslow & Solomon, 2018) and the 2012 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations (Moyer, 2012), here is when and how often you should get screened:

1. Ages 21–29

   • Start at cervical cancer screening age 21, regardless of sexual activity.
   • Pap test (cytology) every 3 years.
   • No HPV testing routinely recommended in this age group.

2. Ages 30–65
   You have three equally acceptable options:

   • Pap test plus HPV test (co-testing) every 5 years (preferred).
   • Pap test alone every 3 years.
   • HPV test alone every 5 years.
     Choosing co-testing offers the greatest protection, since it checks both cell changes and high-risk HPV types.

3. Over Age 65

   • If you’ve had adequate prior screening (three consecutive negative Pap tests or two consecutive negative co-tests within the past 10 years, with the most recent in the last 5 years), you can stop screening.
   • If you’ve had significant cervical precancer in the past, continue screening for at least 20 years after diagnosis—even if that goes past age 65.

4. After Hysterectomy

   • If your uterus and cervix were removed for non-cancerous reasons and you have no history of high-grade precancer, you can stop screening.
   • If hysterectomy was done because of cancer or precancer, continue screening according to your doctor’s advice.

Special Considerations

• Immunocompromised individuals (HIV infection, organ transplant recipients) may need more frequent screening.
• If you were never screened or have irregular history, follow your doctor’s plan to “catch up.”
• Screening recommendations do not apply if you’ve had a total hysterectomy for cancer.

What to Expect During Screening

• Pap Test (Cytology):
  • A healthcare provider gently collects cells from the cervix.
  • You may feel mild pressure or discomfort, but it’s usually quick (under 5 minutes).

• HPV Test:
  • Often done using the same sample as a Pap test.
  • Detects high-risk HPV types that can lead to cervical cancer.

• Co-Testing:
  • Both tests at the same visit.
  • Provides the best balance of sensitivity (finding true positives) and spacing out visits.

Understanding Your Results

• Negative Results: Continue routine screening as recommended.
• Abnormal or Positive HPV Results:
– May need follow-up testing (colposcopy, biopsy) to look for precancerous cells.
– Most HPV infections clear on their own within two years.
• Precancerous Changes (CIN 2/3): Treatment options include removal of abnormal cells to prevent progression.

Reducing Anxiety Around Screening

It’s natural to feel nervous about any medical test. Remember:
• Screening is preventive—finding issues early gives you more control.
• Most abnormalities do not mean you have cancer.
• Healthcare providers are experienced in making the process as comfortable as possible.

Free Online Symptom Checker

If you have symptoms or just want to learn more about what your body is telling you, you might consider doing a free, online symptom check for cervical health concerns. This tool can help you decide whether you need to see a healthcare professional sooner.

When to Talk to Your Doctor Sooner

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
• Unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or after menopause)
• Persistent pelvic pain or discomfort
• Painful sexual intercourse
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue paired with any of the above

These symptoms are not always due to cervical cancer, but they do warrant prompt evaluation.

Key Takeaways

• Start screening at age 21.
• Ages 21–29: Pap every 3 years.
• Ages 30–65: Co-test every 5 years (preferred) or Pap alone every 3 years or HPV alone every 5 years.
• Over 65 with adequate prior screening: You can stop.
• After hysterectomy without cancer history: You can stop.
• Follow special guidelines if immunocompromised or if you have a history of precancer.

Speak to a Doctor

Screening guidelines serve as a general roadmap. Everyone’s history and risk factors are unique. If you have questions about cervical cancer screening age, timing, or any test results, please speak to a doctor. For any life-threatening or serious concerns, seek medical attention right away.