How Often Should I Schedule Pap Smears?

Named after medical researcher Dr. George Papanicolaou, who introduced it to the medical world in 1943, the Pap smear has saved countless women from the consequences of invasive cervical cancer. Technological advances since the 1940s have made this test even more reliable at detecting precancerous or cancerous changes in your cervix.     

At Wynantskill Family Medicine, Scott M. Parrotta, DO, and Ritchie Parrotta, DO, are tuned in to the unique health needs of women and are committed to helping women be proactive with their health and wellness.

Wynantskill Family Medicine is proud to offer women's health services to the community of Wynantskill, New York. A Pap smear is an important part of preventive women's health care. Here we dive into what's recommended regarding when and why Pap smears should be part of your exam.

Why would I need a Pap smear?   

The American Cancer Society notes that at one time cervical cancer was the most common cancer death for women in the United States. That’s no longer true, thanks partly to our ability to detect and remove precancerous or early cancerous cells before the disease can spread. The Pap smear, a lab assessment of a small sampling of cervical cells obtained during an in-office pelvic exam, makes this early life-saving detection possible.

Cervical cancer screening these days may include HPV (human papillomavirus) testing. This testing screens for HPV strains that can cause cervical cancer. Though an HPV infection doesn’t mean you have or will develop cancer, it significantly increases your risk. If you have a positive HPV test, you’ll likely require annual screening until the infection clears.   

When should I have a Pap smear?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends a screening Pap smear based on factors such as your age and health history. For instance, they recommend a screening study every three years from age 21-29 and every five years from age 30-65.

However, you may require more frequent studies if you’ve previously had an abnormal Pap smear, a history of cervical cancer, or a positive HPV test. During your visit, your Wynantskill Family Medicine provider reviews your history to determine a schedule for cervical cancer screening that best fits your needs.

Otherwise, general ACOG guidelines for screening Pap smears and HPV testing are as follows:

• Under 21: No screening, regardless of sexual activity
• Age 21: Initial screening Pap smear
• Ages 21-29: Screening Pap smear every three years
• Ages 30-65: Pap smear alone every three years or combined with HPV testing every five years

Women over 65 can usually stop having routine Pap smears, provided their last three studies have been negative. However, the ACOG recommends you continue with screening Pap smears even if you’ve had an HPV vaccination since not all cervical cancers are related to HPV.

Do I need a women’s health exam every year?

The ACOG recommends a women’s health exam yearly, even if you aren’t due for cervical cancer screening. Additional topics covered during an annual exam at Wynantskill Family Medicine include:

• Birth control
• Breast, pelvic, and urinary health
• Your menstrual cycle
• Menopause

During a women’s health exam, your physician also focuses on your blood pressure, heart health, and other issues that affect your overall well-being.

Visit Wynantskill Family Medicine today for outstanding medical care that’s always patient-focused. Call the office or use the online tool to schedule a pap smear today.