Regular Pap tests are important for preventing cervical cancer.

When does the BC Cancer Agency recommend women start having Pap tests?
Screening should begin at age 21 or approximately three years after first sexual contact.  Sexual contact includes touching and intercourse because the human papillomavirus (HPV) is transmitted though sexual contact, not just sexual intercourse. HPV causes nearly all cervical cancers.

How often do women need Pap tests?
Once a year until she has 3 normal results in a row, then every 2 years.

Why is regular screening needed?
Pap tests find most cases of abnormal cervical cells, but no screening test is perfect. Repeat testing ensures accuracy.

When can women stop having Pap tests?
After age 69, women are at low risk of developing cervical cancer. She can stop having Pap tests if she had:

• 3 or more normal results in a row in the last 10 years, and
• no history of moderately or severely abnormal Pap test results.

Do women need cervical screening after a hysterectomy?
In general, women who had a total hysterectomy (surgery to remove the entire uterus with cervix) can stop having Pap tests. But it also depends on previous Pap tests results, so talk to a health care provider about what is best for you.

If you are unsure if you need cervical screening, talk to your health care provider.