Blog - Seattle Women's

The purpose of this test is to detect cervical cancer and pre-cancerous changes of the cervix. The guidelines for annual testing for cervical cancer have changed with increased understanding of the way cervical cancer develops and the role of Human Papilloma Virus. The biggest change is that we do not begin this test until age 21. After that, the frequency is determined by your personal history and results.

What this means to you:

• If you or your daughter is under age 21 you (or she) do not need to have a Pap Smear

• If you have received the “HPV Vaccine”, Gardasil, you still need to have regular Pap smears

• You may elect to have HPV testing in addition to the Pap Smear. If this is negative, it may allow you to have Pap Smears less frequently.

Most importantly, the “Pap smear” is a small part of the annual exam. An annual gynecologic examination is still an essential part of care for women. We perform a breast examination, review your mammogram reports, and examine your thyroid gland, lymph nodes and abdomen. The pelvic examination includes a thorough inspection of your vulva and vagina as well as your cervix. The remainder of the pelvic examination involves palpation of your cervix, uterus and ovaries. So, whether you need a Pap smear or not-it is important to have a gynecologic exam yearly.

Robin Kroll, MD

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Let’s Talk About “Pap Smears”