The recommendations about pap smear testing have changed a lot over the last 25 years, and understanding how often you need this routine test can be confusing. MORE 901 is here to help with that.
When it comes to gynecologic health, there are few preventive measures that are as powerful and as simple as the Pap smear. The Pap smear is a quick, routine screening test that has dramatically reduced cervical cancer rates over the past decades. However, many people still delay or avoid getting their Pap done due to fear, confusion, or lack of information. Understanding what a Pap smear is and why it matters can help you take confident steps toward protecting your health.
First, the history of the Pap Smear test.
The Pap Smear was developed by Dr. Papanicolaou in 1920 as a way to look for changes in the cells of the cervix that occurred before patients developed cervical cancer. The test was used in medical management beginning in 1941. The old-fashioned Pap was done by gently scraping the cervix and “smearing” the sample onto a microscope slide. As you can imagine, the quality of that sample varied a lot and could be affected by blood, discharge or inflammatory cells.
Changes on the cervical cells usually take years and we knew that the old Pap Smear was an imperfect test, but because it was done every year, we also knew that we would see these changes that occurred over time. In essence, if abnormalities were missed one year, they would likely be found the next year.
Beginning about 30 years ago, “liquid-based” cytologic testing was introduced to improve the quality of the Pap test. In the current testing, the sample is collected and put into a vial of liquid. At the lab, they filter out all extraneous material, blood, mucus etc. and create a much better sample for evaluation.
In addition, testing for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the virus that causes the changes leading to cervical cancer, was introduced about 20 years ago to further improve testing.
Next, why is screening so important?
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, largely because it can be detected early with regular screening and can be prevented with HPV vaccination. Pap smears don’t just look for cancer—they identify early cell changes long before cancer develops. Treating these changes early is highly effective and can prevent serious illness later on.
In many cases, abnormal cervical changes are caused by persistent infection with high‑risk types of HPV, which is a very common virus. Pap smears, often combined with HPV testing, help providers like Dr. Lacy identify people at higher risk and guide next steps in care.
Who should get a Pap Smear—and how often?
General guidelines recommend that anyone with a cervix get their first pap smear at 21 years old, regardless of when you became sexually active. Cervical cancer is extremely rare in young people, which is why 21 is the recommended starting age.
Further screening guidelines are:
- Ages 21–29: A Pap smear every 3 years
- Ages 30–65:
- A Pap smear every 3 years, or
- HPV testing alone every 5 years, or
- Co‑testing (Pap smear + HPV test) every 5 years
- Age 65 and over: Pap smear testing may be covered by Medicare every 2 years if needed
Dr. Lacy may recommend a different schedule based on your medical history, immune status, or prior test results. Even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms, regular screening is still essential!
Now, what is a pap smear and what can you expect during the test?
One of the biggest barriers to pap smear testing is anxiety about the exam, and trust us, we get it! Our MORE 901 team is made up solely of women, so we know firsthand how daunting it can be. Knowing what to expect, however, can help ease concerns.
For the test, Dr. Lacy and an assistant will be in the room. The test typically only takes a few minutes, and while you may feel pressure or mild discomfort, it should not be painful. If you feel pain at any point, let us know and we will work to make you more comfortable. To start, Dr. Lacy will gently insert a device called a speculum into the vagina in order to see the cervix. A small sample of cervical cells are then collected using a soft brush or spatula, and finally that sample is sent to our lab partner to be examined for abnormal or precancerous cells.
You will receive the lab results directly, but don’t be worried if they’re confusing to you! One of the MORE 901 team members will call you once Dr. Lacy has looked over the results, and will let you know if everything is normal, abnormal, or if there are any next steps you should take. You’ll never be alone in the process!
Let’s debunk some common myths about pap smears.
“I don’t need a Pap smear if I feel fine.”
Cervical cell changes rarely cause symptoms early on. Pap smear testing is designed to catch problems before you might feel anything! The earlier we can detect and document changes the better, so it is crucial to follow the guidelines and keep up to date on your exams.
“Pap smears are only necessary if you’re sexually active.”
Screening guidelines are based on age, NOT sexual activity. HPV exposure can occur in various ways and cervical cell changes can develop without symptoms. It doesn’t matter if you are celibate, not currently sexually active, or only engage in monogamous sexual activity- you still need to get regular pap smears!
“An abnormal result means I have cancer.”
If you receive an abnormal result don’t panic, and most importantly do not try to use Google to self diagnose! Most abnormal results are not cancer. They usually only indicate mild cell changes that often clear up on their own or just need monitoring. Some abnormal results might require further evaluation, often with a procedure called a colposcopy that will allow Dr. Lacy to look more closely at the cervix and take small biopsies if necessary.
The bottom line- take charge of your cervical health.
Pap smear testing is one of the most effective tools we have to prevent cervical cancer. It’s simple, routine, and designed to protect your long‑term health. Making time for routine preventive care is a powerful act of self‑care. If you’ve been postponing your Pap smear because of fear, embarrassment, or a busy schedule, you’re not alone—but its time to reclaim that part of your health.
If you’re unsure when your last screening was, reach out to your healthcare provider and start the conversation. Ask questions, discuss your options, and advocate for a screening plan that fits your health needs. By staying informed and keeping up with recommended screenings, you’re taking an important step toward a healthier future. Your health is worth those few minutes.
Ready to schedule your pap smear with Dr. Lacy? Reach out to MORE 901 today!
