University Health Services

Pap Smear Recommendations

• Women should have their first screening, Pap smear, at age 21 or 3 years after your first sexual activity, unless a history of previous abnormal Pap.
• Women in their 20’s should have a Pap smear every two years (assuming prior Pap smears have been normal)
• Women age 30 and older who have had three consecutive normal Pap smears should have a Pap smear every three years.
• Women who have had a hysterectomy for non-cancerous reasons do not need a Pap smear unless they have a cervix.
• These guidelines need to be followed whether you have or have not had the HPV vaccine.

UNA Health and Wellness Center is putting the new ACOG recommendations into practice starting May 2010.

• We still recommend a yearly physical including blood pressure screening, breast exam, pelvic exam (based on history), STI screening (if sexually active), and urine pregnancy test (if sexually active).
• You must have an annual exam to receive birth control pills.
• If you have ever had an abnormal Pap smear, consult with a physician concerning how often you will need a Pap smear.

The pelvic exam may or may not include a Pap smear based upon your history and ACOG guidelines. Your MD/NP will discuss this with you at the time of your appointment.

If you have further questions or would like to make an appointment, please call Health and Wellness Services. 765-4328

These guidelines are in accordance with the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Cancer Society, and US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.