The Importance of Screening for Cervical Cancer
When it comes to taking care of your health, cervical cancer screening is one of the most important steps you can take. Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of your uterus that connects to the vagina. The cancer grows from abnormal cells. It is one of the most common cancers in women around the world, and in the U.S., there are about 13,000 new cases each year.
With proper screening, we’ve managed to lower the incidence of cervical cancer. However, the rates in women ages 30-44 are rising. How can you ensure you’re protected? Screening for cervical cancer is easy and usually very quick. The best part is that you can complete it during your annual well-woman exam.
What Is Cervical Cancer Screening?
We currently use two screenings—Pap smears and HPV tests—to detect cervical cancer or something that may turn into cervical cancer. They work by catching early changes in your cervix that could lead to cancer if left untreated. The earlier these changes are found, the easier they are to treat, often before they become a serious problem.
Pap Test
A Pap test, commonly known as a Pap smear, is a screening test that checks for abnormal cells on the cervix. During this relatively quick procedure, your healthcare provider takes a small sample of cells from your cervix using a small brush or swab. The Pap test identifies precancerous changes in cervical cells. Early detection is key–t he five-year survival rate for cervical cancer is 91% when diagnosed early.
HPV Test
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses that can cause infections, warts, and some types of cancer. It is also the most common sexually transmitted infection and the leading cause of cervical cancer. An HPV test is the best way to detect HPV; it works by detecting the presence of high-risk strains of HPV, which may turn into cervical cancer. Like a Pap test, a small sample of cells is collected from your cervix. HPV tests are often performed along with Pap tests in women 30-65.
How to Test for Cervical Cancer
You may be concerned about the tests, but testing for cervical cancer is a quick and simple procedure done in your doctor’s office or clinic. During the test, your doctor will use a small tool called a speculum to gently open your vaginal area and collect a few cells from your cervix. While this might feel a little uncomfortable, it’s over in just a few minutes. To make sure the test is as accurate as possible:
- Try to avoid intercourse, douching, or using vaginal medicines for two days before your appointment.
- If you’re worried about discomfort, you may be able to take an over-the-counter pain reliever a few hours before the procedure.
- If you are on your period, you can still have a pap smear or HPV test; just alert your healthcare provider ahead of time.
The process is straightforward, and this small step can help catch potential issues early.
Pap vs. HPV Tests
While Pap and HPV tests seem to be testing for the same thing, they are not. The HPV test specifically looks for evidence of the human papillomavirus. The Pap tests is looking for any cell changes that can become cancerous or lead to other issues with your cervix. Both tests can be done simultaneously, but they are different.
When to Get Screened: Age Recommendations
As we’ve learned more about how cervical cancer works and what is best for patients, recommendations on how often people need screenings have changed. The frequency of screening depends on several factors, including your personal and family medical history, so your healthcare provider is your best bet for accurate information.
Ages 21-29: Pap Tests Only
Starting at age 21, you should regularly get Pap tests, working with your healthcare provider on the frequency, even if you are not sexually active. They do not recommend regular HPV testing unless your Pap results come back unclear or show evidence of precancerous cells.
Ages 30-65: Pap and HPV Co-Testing
Between the ages of 30 and 65, you may need a Pap test, an HPV test or co-testing with an HPV and Pap test.
The frequency of screening in this age group is based on the results of your previous test. If the results show precancerous cells or any other abnormal changes, you may need to test more regularly.
Ages 65 and Older: Routine Screening No Longer Necessary
If you have had adequate (i.e., routine) screening and show no precancerous or otherwise abnormal cells, you can likely stop screening for cervical cancer at 65 years old. However, if you have a family history of cervical cancer or had prior unclear test results, you may have to continue with screening. Your healthcare provider will establish the frequency of these tests.
Understanding Test Results
Once you’ve completed the screening, your healthcare provider will send the sample to a lab for an assessment. Results for both the Pap and HPV tests typically take anywhere between a few days to three weeks. Understanding your results can provide peace of mind, but don’t worry; your provider will discuss them with you.
Pap Test Results
There are four outcomes for Pap tests:
- Normal: A normal or negative test result means the Pap smear indicates no evidence of abnormal cells
- Abnormal: An abnormal or positive test result means abnormal cells were detected in the sample. Your healthcare provider will likely ask you to return for a follow-up test and/or additional monitoring. An abnormal test result doesn’t mean you have cancer.
- Unclear: If the test returns “unclear” as a result, that means there is evidence of abnormal cervical cells, but they cannot determine if the cause is HPV. Unclear results
- can be due to pregnancy, menopause, an infection or having used vaginal products or having had sex directly before the test.
- Unsatisfactory: Unsatisfactory results simply mean that the lab did not have enough material in the sample or there was another issue with the sample, so they could not conduct a test. Regardless of the results, your provider can always answer questions and discuss the next steps. The most important thing to remember is that you have options, and you are not alone.
HPV Test Results
HPV test results have two outcomes: positive or negative. A negative test result means you do not have an HPV type linked to cervical cancer, but that does not mean you do not have any kind of HPV. A positive result means you have a type of HPV linked to cervical cancer. That does not mean you have cervical cancer or that it will turn into cervical cancer. Your provider will discuss the next steps if your test results are positive. You may just need monitoring or more regular screening.
Common Questions About Screening
At What Age Are Pap Smears No Longer Required?
If you have been tested regularly and have no prior abnormal Pap test results, you can stop testing at age 65.
How is HPV Tested?
The screening for HPV is called a high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) test. Your healthcare provider takes a small sample of cells from your cervix, which is sent to a lab. The test looks for high-risk strains of HPV. If you have a positive result, that means you have a strain of HPV that may lead to cervical cancer. If you have a negative result, it means you do not.
I Have HPV. Will I Get Cancer?
It’s important to note that although there are 200+ strains of HPV, only about 40 can be spread via direct contact. Additionally, most cases of HPV never turn into cancer, and the majority of infections clear up on their own. Getting tested and regular ObGyn appointments will help ensure you remain as healthy as possible. I had a hysterectomy.
Do I Need Cervical Cancer Screening?
No, if you are post-hysterectomy and the cervix is removed for non-cancerous conditions, you do not need to have routine cervical cancer screening.
Cervical Cancer Screenings in Long Island
Thanks to regular screenings, cervical cancer rates have dropped significantly, and the survival rate for those who catch it early is much higher. Two quick, straightforward tests could potentially save your life. Cervical cancer screening detects abnormalities early. The earlier we find these changes, the easier it is to monitor or treat them before they become a serious problem. Don’t wait— schedule your cervical cancer screening today at one of our locations. With convenient offices in Suffolk and Nassau County, as well as Queens , we’re here to make prioritizing your health easy and accessible.