Recommendations on Frequency of Pap Test
Q: How often should we women get a pap done?
Reply:
What Is Pap Smear Test Done?
It is a simple test which checks the changes in the cells of your cervix. The purpose of the Paps is to screen out any abnormality in the cells of the cervix which includes infections and cancers.
Guidelines According to Age and Reproductive Status
How often the test is required would depend upon the age and reproductive status of the women.
- After a woman becomes sexually active, pap smear testing needs to be done after every 2 years. This is to continue till 30 years of age.
- After that, if you get 3 consecutive normal pap smears (that is, three normal tests in a row), the doctors may consider spacing this test to every 3 years instead of 2 years.
- After 65 years of age, you may stop having these test.
More Frequent Testing in Certain Conditions
However, doctors may recommend for more frequent testings in any of the following conditions:
- You are HIV positive
- Immunocompromised state, like after radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or after a lone term steroid treatment.
- Your mother was exposed to DES (diethylstilbestrol) while pregnant.
- You are nutritionally deficient and weak.
Take Care,
Buddy M.D.
I have spotting between periods but lately it has been more bleeding than spotting. Is there need for concern or is this normal? It’s been going on for 2 years. No pain. I’m 26 and overweight. Is weight the issue?
There has to be a reason for your untimely bleeds. You definitely need a gyne checkup. There may be some abnormal growth in your uterus, like a fibroid or a polyp. Malignancies should also be ruled out.
Being overweight may not be related with this problem.