Cervical cancer screening finds cell changes on the cervix before they turn into cancer. The right test and how often you need it depend mostly on your age and your past results.
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly. Most cases are caused by long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus spread through sexual contact. Screening can find abnormal cells early, when they can be watched or treated before cancer develops.
Both tests use the same kind of sample. They can be done separately or together. Doing both at once is called co-testing.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends the following for people with a cervix who are at average risk:
People who have had a hysterectomy that removed the cervix, for a reason other than cancer or precancer, usually do not need screening.
These schedules are for people at average risk. Your provider may recommend more frequent testing if you have had abnormal results or precancer in the past, have HIV or a weakened immune system, or were exposed to the medication DES before birth. Talk with your provider about the schedule that is right for you.
Screening is usually done during a well woman visit. You lie on the exam table, and the provider places a speculum in the vagina to see the cervix. A small brush or spatula is used to collect cells. The sample is sent to a lab.
Collecting the sample takes only a few minutes. Some people feel pressure or mild cramping. Light spotting afterward is common and usually stops on its own.
Results usually fall into one of three groups:
Your provider will explain your results and the next step.
The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers. People who have had the vaccine still need regular screening, because the vaccine does not protect against every type. Ask your provider whether the vaccine is recommended for you or your children. See our immunizations page for more about vaccines.
Screening is for people who have no symptoms. If you notice bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, bleeding after menopause, unusual discharge or pelvic pain, do not wait for your next screening. Make an appointment so a provider can check the cause.
Many people are not sure when they had their last Pap or HPV test. Keep a record of the date and result of each test, or ask our office to check your chart. If you are new to our practice, bring records from your previous provider so your screening schedule can continue without gaps.
Pap tests are part of well woman care at both our clinics: 25511 Budde Rd, Suite 3901, in The Woodlands and 2715 N Mason Rd in Katy. If you are also due for breast cancer screening, 3D mammography and ultrasound are available at our Woodlands clinic. See mammogram and ultrasound for details.
To schedule, use the Book Appointment button at the top of this page or call (281) 466-4644. Our staff speaks English and Spanish.
For people at average risk, every 3 years from ages 21 to 29. From 30 to 65, a Pap test every 3 years, an HPV test every 5 years or both together every 5 years. Your provider may recommend a different schedule based on your history.
Most people feel pressure or mild discomfort for a few minutes. Light spotting afterward is common.
No. Most abnormal results are caused by minor cell changes or HPV infections that often clear up on their own. Your provider will recommend follow-up testing if needed.
Yes. The vaccine does not protect against every type of HPV that can cause cancer, so regular screening is still recommended.
Pap tests are done during well woman visits at our clinics in The Woodlands and Katy. Call (281) 466-4644 to schedule.
25511 Budde Rd, Suite 3901, The Woodlands, TX
2715 N Mason Rd, Katy, TX
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. Please talk with a provider about your own health. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.
