The first time my primary care doctor suggested I get a Pap test, also called a Pap smear, I had no clue what she was talking about and why she was advising me to be tested. My world caved in because I thought she was indicating I was unhealthy. Little did I know that a Pap test was something many of my friends were getting done.

A Pap test is a routine exam for screening for cervical cancer.  Women should get routine screening to help them avoid getting cervical cancer, which is caused by a common sexually transmitted infection, human papilloma virus (HPV).

About 1 out of 4 women will get the types of HPV that are related to cervical cancer in her lifetime.  Routine cervical cancer screening and early detection has helped to save lives. Today, only 1 out of 1,000 women who contracts cancer-related HPV will develop full-blown cervical cancer.

When should you receive your first Pap smear?

Leading women’s health authorities suggest that routine Pap testing begin at age 21 or three years after first vaginal intercourse. Women should have a Pap test every year until they are 30.  From age 30 on, Pap tests can happen every two or three years.

Why you should have a Pap smear test performed yearly is safe in early detection of cervical cancer. If the test results come back abnormal that does not mean you have cancer, but it can indicate cancerous or abnormal cells were detected. If cervical cancer is detected during its early stage it can be cured (http://www.cdc.gov/hpv/).

How can you avoid receiving an abnormal test?

Practice safe sex. The Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viruses in the United States and 50% of sexually active individuals contract this virus (http://www.cdc.gov/hpv/). HPV is linked to cervical cancer because if the virus remains in the body for long periods of time (years) it can cause the cancers found on the cervix.

My Advice.

If you haven’t received your first Pap smear or if it has been too long to remember your last Pap smear, I suggest you call your local health care provider and request a test at their soonest availability. The information provided on this blog is intended as a guideline. It is important to discuss your individual concerns with your health care provider. Everyone’s health history is different or unique. We encourage you to make health decisions in consultation with a trusted medical provider.