The frequency of Pap smears depends mainly on your age and health history, with current guidelines recommending the following:
- Under age 21: Pap smears are generally not recommended, as the risk of cervical cancer is very low
- Ages 21 to 29: Have a Pap smear every 3 years if results are normal. HPV testing alone is generally not recommended in this group, but Pap tests are preferred
- Ages 30 to 65: You have three acceptable options:
- Pap smear alone every 3 years,
- HPV test alone every 5 years,
- or co-testing with both Pap smear and HPV test every 5 years. The choice among these depends on your preference and healthcare provider's advice
- Over age 65: Screening may be stopped if you have had regular normal results in the past 10 years and no history of abnormal cells or cervical cancer. Otherwise, screening may continue based on your risk
- If you have abnormal results or are at high risk (e.g., weakened immune system, prior abnormal cells), you may need more frequent screening than the standard intervals
Annual Pap smears are no longer routinely recommended due to the slow development of cervical cancer and improved understanding of HPV's role. However, yearly gynecological exams remain important
. In summary, most people with a cervix should have a Pap smear every 3 years starting at age 21, with options to extend to every 5 years with HPV testing starting at age 30, continuing until about age 65, unless otherwise advised by a healthcare provider
