Glossary · Tests

Pap smear / cervical cancer screening

Also called: Cervical cytology, Cervical cancer screening.

Definition: The Pap smear (cervical cytology) and HPV testing are the cornerstones of cervical cancer screening. USPSTF recommends screening for women aged 21–65 with various intervals depending on age and approach. Screening continues into the early postmenopausal years and may stop at 65 with adequate prior negative screening.

Detailed definition

Cervical cancer screening uses cervical cytology (Pap smear), HPV DNA testing, or co-testing to identify precancerous and cancerous cervical lesions. USPSTF current recommendations (2018, with 2024 updates pending): women 21–29 every 3 years with cytology alone; women 30–65 every 3 years with cytology, every 5 years with HPV alone, or every 5 years with co-testing. Screening can typically stop at age 65 in women with adequate prior negative screening (defined criteria) and no high-risk history. Postmenopausal women with vaginal atrophy may have unsatisfactory cytology specimens; pretreatment with vaginal estrogen for several weeks can improve specimen adequacy in selected cases.

Why it matters in menopause

Cervical cancer screening continues into early postmenopause and is part of routine well-woman care. ClearedRx confirms current screening status at intake.

Sources

External references: Wikipedia.

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