Cervical Cancer Series 03 | When Should You Start Cervical Cancer Screening?
Deciding when to begin cervical cancer screening can be surprisingly confusing. One guideline may recommend starting at age 21, while another says age 25. You may also see World Health Organization guidance referring to age 30. The recommended interval varies too. Some people are screened every three years, while others are screened every five years. Some receive a Pap test, some receive an HPV test, and others have both at the same time. So which recommendation should you follow? There is no single screening schedule that applies to everyone in every country. The appropriate starting age, test, and interval depend on the guideline used in your country, as well as your previous results and individual risk factors. Instead of remembering only one age or testing interval, it is important to know: Which test you received What your previous result showed Whether earlier follow-up was recommended Which guideline your healthcare system follows Whether you have factors that place you at...