Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer screening, or pap smears, should begin when a woman becomes sexually active or about age 20. Between the ages of 21 – 65, pap smears should be done at least every 3 years for sexually active women (after 2 negative pap tests are done one year apart). Over age 65, pap smears should be continued every 3 years, as long as the woman has a life expectancy of at least 10 years or if symptoms are present. A pap smear is not necessary for women who have had a hysterectomy, unless it was done for cancer or a pre-cancerous condition. A pelvic exam is still an important part of a woman’s physical exam.