What is a Pap Smear?

A pap smear is a test that screens for precancerous and cancerous changes of the cervix. It’s sometimes also known as a cervical cancer screening.

What causes abnormal pap smears?

An abnormal pap smear can be caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is spread by sexual contact but is essentially the “common cold” of sexually transmitted infections. Over 80% of women will test positive for HPV at some point during their lifetime, and the infection can be from any partner in her lifetime. There is no remedy for HPV, but the immune system works to suppress the virus. Therefore, there will be times when there is no physical evidence of the virus.

Find out what to expect during a pelvic exam in this blog post!

Does an Abnormal Pap Smear Mean I have Cervical Cancer?

An abnormal Pap smear does not mean you have cervical cancer. It simply means that some changes were found in the cells of your cervix, and more testing needs to be done. These changes can vary widely, and many of them are not cancerous. For example, HPV is the most common cause of abnormal cervical cells. Certain types of HPV are linked to a higher risk of cervical cancer, but most HPV infections go away on their own. 

How often do I need a pap smear?

• Pap smears are offered to all women between the ages of  21 and 65.
• Women aged 21-29 should have pap smears done every three years.
• Women aged 30-65 should have a pap and HPV co-testing every five years. An alternative is to have a pap test alone every three years.
• Women can stop having pap smears after age 65 if they do not have a history of moderate to severe abnormalities on prior paps or cancer AND have had either three normal pap tests or two negative co-test results within the last 10 years. 
  The most recent test needs to be within the past five years.
• Women with a history of cervical cancer, HIV, a weakened immune system, or diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure before birth should not follow these routine guidelines and should instead ask their doctor for recommendations specific to them.

What is co-testing?

Co-testing is when your doctor does a routine pap smear and tests you for the HPV virus. If both the pap and HPV test are normal, the likelihood of an abnormal pap smear is much less over the next four to six years. Women under the age of 30 should not get routine HPV testing as the infection is common and frequently resolves on its own.

To find out if your insurance covers HPV testing, you can call your insurance provider and give them the following billing codes:

• CPT: 87621
• ICD-9: V73.81 HPV screening ICD-10: Z11.51 Encounter for Screening for HPV

Or go to the following website and they will contact your insurance company for you. www.thehpvtest.com

Why don’t I need a pap smear every year anymore?

Studies have shown there is no real advantage to yearly paps over every three years. More frequent pap smears are more likely to result in more unnecessary procedures and tests. However, an annual exam with your doctor is still recommended.

Do I Only Need to See My Provider Every Three Years?

No, you still need to be seen every year. Your annual exam is not just for cervical cancer screening. It is important for all aspects of your health, including contraception, pregnancy planning, breast problems, period problems, etc.

Learn how to take charge of your health by reading our Self-Care Guide for Women!

What if I have had a hysterectomy?

If you have had a hysterectomy, you may still need cervical cancer screening with pap smears. You should talk with your doctor about whether you still need pap smears.

What Happens if I Have an Abnormal Pap Smear? 

A colposcopy follows many abnormal pap smears. A colposcopy is an office procedure where we take a closer look at the cervix with a microscope and typically take a few biopsies. Based on these results, we determine the next steps. This often entails more frequent pap smears but sometimes requires further treatment. Your doctor will determine the best treatment course for you.

How Can Moreland OB-GYN Help?

Prioritizing your cervical health through regular screenings is key to early detection and prevention. At Moreland OB-GYN, our compassionate team is dedicated to providing comfortable, thorough cervical cancer screenings tailored to your unique needs. 

Take the next step toward safeguarding your health by scheduling your annual exam or HPV test today. We’re here to support you every step of the way.