The Pap Smear is a screening test for cervical cancer. Most cervical cancers can be detected early if a woman has routine Pap Smears. Pap Smears can be regularly performed in our Seminole office on an appointment basis.
Screening should start at age 21. After the first test:
- You should have a Pap Smear every one to two years to check for cervical cancer.
- If you are over age 30 or your Pap Smears have been negative for 3 times in a row, your doctor may tell you that you only need a Pap Smear every 3 years.
- If you or your sexual partner have other new partners, you should have a Pap Smear every year.
After age 65-70:
- Most women can stop having Pap Smears as long as they have had three negative tests within the past 10 years.
- If you have a new sexual partner after age 65, you should begin having Pap Smear screening again.
You may not need to have a Pap Smear if you have had a total hysterectomy (uterus and cervix removed) and have not had an abnormal Pap Smear, cervical cancer, or other pelvic cancer.
During your medical visit, and if it is deemed appropriate, prescriptions for birth control can be written as well.
Please call our office at 727.397.1559 to schedule your Pap smear appointment.