Pap test guidelines

Pap test guidelines recommend women start screening at age 21, regardless of sexual activity. For women aged 21-29, a Pap test is usually done every three years to detect abnormal cervical cells. For women 30-65, it's advised to have a Pap test combined with HPV testing every five years or a Pap alone every three years. After age 65, screening may be reduced if previous results were normal. It's important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations, as guidelines can vary based on personal health history. Regular screening helps prevent cervical cancer through early detection of abnormal changes.