Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
What is a Pap Smear?
A pap smear or pap test is an examination that tests for cervical cancer in women or people with uteruses. By collecting cells from the cervix and sending them off for testing, doctors can determine if you are at risk for cervical cancer. Early detection of this type of cancer is critical to finding its cure.
Many people grew up with the expectation that an annual pap smear was a routine part of general healthcare. It was built into insurance plans as a cost-free examination. But in recent years, HPV testing has become available as an alternative. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, "women can get a human papillomavirus (HPV) test instead, beginning at age 25 and then every five years following.”
When Should You Get Tested
According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, there are some guidelines for cervical cancer screenings that include:
- Women aged 21 to 29 should have a Pap test every 3 years. HPV testing alone can be considered for women who are 25 to 29, but Pap tests are preferred.
- Women aged 30 to 65 should have both a Pap test and an HPV test every 5 years.
- After age 65, you can stop having cervical cancer screenings if you have never had abnormal cervical cells or cervical cancer
Some exceptions to these guidelines include:
- Having a history of cervical cancer
- HIV positive status
- Have a weakened immune system
Pap Smears and HPV Testing: What is the Difference?
Pap smears are considered painful or uncomfortable for many women because it involves the scraping of the cervix. Unlike a test for HPV, this scraping of cells requires a slightly invasive process. The HPV test, however, requires that medical providers take a sampling of mucus from the cervix instead which does not typically result in any pain. Providers are even discussing making take-home HPV tests available for more regular and accurate testing.
Why You Should See Your Ob-Gyn Every Year
Besides cervical cancer screenings, there are a lot of good reasons to visit your ob-gyn annually. As a woman or person with a uterus, there are many potential questions and happenings within the body that should be monitored and discussed with your healthcare provider. Some things that might come up include questions around pregnancy, sex or birth control, pelvic pain, or abnormal bleeding. Your doctor can also provide STI testing if you are a sexually active person. This routine visit is crucial, and the pap smear is just one small part of your overall health and wellness so make sure to get checked!
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