Pap tests in women aged 21-29 and 30 – 65 years of age
In average risk women, annual cervical cytology screening has been shown to offer no advantage over screening performed at 3-year intervals, without HPV co-testing, for age 21-29 or 5-year intervals, with HPV co-testing, for age 30-65. However, a well-woman visit should occur annually to discuss prevention practices, recognizing risk factors for disease, identifying medical problems, and establishing the clinician–patient relationship.
Women who have a history of cervical cancer, are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), have a weakened immune system, or who were exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth may require more frequent screening and should not follow these routine guidelines.
Screening for cervical cancer is not recommended in women who have had a hysterectomy with removal of the cervix and who do not have a history of a high-grade precancerous lesion.
For abnormal pap smears, MPP supports following the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) Guidelines
AVOID ANNUAL SCREENING
If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Preston Thomas, Associate Medical Director at 248-484-4980 or Preston.Thomas@McLaren.org