Pap & HPV Testing: Your Guide to Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening is an important part of preventive healthcare. Regular screening can help detect changes in cervical cells before they develop into cancer.

A Pap test (Pap smear) checks for abnormal changes in cervical cells, while an HPV test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus that can cause cervical cancer.

Depending on your age, medical history, and current screening recommendations, your healthcare provider may recommend a Pap test, an HPV test, or both.

Important: Cervical cancer screening recommendations vary based on your screening history, previous abnormal results, and certain medical conditions. Your healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate screening schedule for you.

Regular cervical cancer screening helps detect high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and abnormal cervical cells that could lead to cervical cancer.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) updated its screening recommendations in 2026.

Under Age 21

• Routine cervical cancer screening is not recommended, regardless of sexual activity.

Ages 21–29

• A Pap test (cervical cytology) is recommended every 3 years for individuals at average risk.

Ages 30–65

• Preferred: A clinician-collected high-risk HPV test every 5 years.
• Alternative: A Pap test and HPV test together (co-testing) every 5 years.
• Another option: A Pap test alone every 3 years when HPV-based testing is unavailable or when chosen after counseling.
• Self-collected HPV testing: For eligible patients, an FDA-approved, clinician-ordered or clinician-approved HPV test using a self-collected sample may be an option every 3 years, when appropriate follow-up systems are available.

After Age 65

• Routine screening may be discontinued when you have an adequate history of normal screening results and no relevant high-risk history.
• Some individuals need continued screening because of previous abnormal results, insufficient screening, or other risk factors.

If your cervix was removed during a total hysterectomy for a noncancerous condition, and you have no history of cervical cancer or significant cervical precancer, routine cervical cancer screening is generally no longer needed.

If your cervix remains in place, screening should continue according to the appropriate recommendations.

These routine recommendations may not apply if you have:

• A history of high-grade cervical precancer or cervical cancer.
• Previous abnormal cervical screening results requiring follow-up.
• HIV or another condition that weakens your immune system.
• A history of exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth.

Your healthcare provider will recommend an individualized screening or surveillance plan.

• A Pap test and an HPV test are not the same test.
• An abnormal result does not automatically mean you have cancer.
• HPV vaccination does not eliminate the need for recommended cervical cancer screening.
• Cervical cancer screening is different from testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• You may still need routine gynecologic and preventive healthcare visits even when a Pap test is not due.

Remember: The best screening schedule depends on your age, medical history, previous results, and individual risk factors. Discuss your screening options with your healthcare provider.

    Screening Guidelines

• United States Preventative Services Task Force
• American Cancer Society
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
• American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP)



Pap Smear Abbreviations

ASC-US:     Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance

ASC-H:       Atypical Squamous Cells, cannot rule out High Grade

AGC:           Atypical Glandular Cells

LSIL:           Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Neoplasia (also called mild dysplasia)

HSIL:          High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Neoplasia (also called moderate or severe dysplasia

To learn more about your PAP results please visit: HPV and Pap Test Results for more information.