The general recommendation for Pap smears is as follows:
- Women aged 21 to 29 should have a Pap smear every 3 years.
- Women aged 30 to 65 have three options:
- A Pap smear every 3 years,
- A Pap smear combined with an HPV test every 5 years,
- Or an HPV test alone every 5 years.
- Women under 21 don't need a Pap smear.
- Women over 65 can stop if they have had regular screenings with normal results and are not at high risk.
More frequent Pap smears may be needed for those with a history of cervical cancer, HIV infection, a weakened immune system, or other risk factors. Women who have had a total hysterectomy may not need further Pap smears. For transgender and nonbinary individuals with female anatomy, regular Pap testing is recommended with slightly adjusted age intervals. These recommendations aim to balance effective cervical cancer screening while minimizing unnecessary invasive procedures and follow-ups.