Cervical Cancer Screening: Why It Matters and When to Start
May 19, 2026
Cervical cancer screening can find cell changes early, before they become cancer, or help identify cancer early when it may be easier to treat.
What Is Cervical Cancer Screening?
Cervical cancer screening is an important part of preventive care. It helps check for cell changes in the cervix that may need follow-up.
Cervical cancer screening uses a Pap test, an HPV test, or both to look for changes that could become cancer over time. Regular screening can also help find cancer early, when treatment is often more effective.
Why Cervical Cancer Screening Matters
It can find cell changes early, before they become more serious.
It is recommended even if you feel well and do not have symptoms.
Keeping up with screening can make follow-up care simpler and more effective.
How Cervical Cancer Screenings Are Done
These tests are often done during a pelvic exam. Your provider collects a small sample of cervical cells, and the results help guide whether any follow-up is needed.
A Pap test checks cells from the cervix for changes that may need follow-up.
An HPV test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus that can lead to cell changes in the cervix, allowing for early treatment to prevent cervical cancer cells from forming.
Who Should Be Screened?
People at average risk with a cervix should start cervical cancer screening at age 21 and continue through at least age 65. Some people may need a different screening schedule based on their health history, prior test results, or other risk factors. You may be able to stop screening after age 65 if you have had regular screening with normal results, so talk with your provider about what is right for you.
When to Get Screened for Cervical Cancer
Getting screened regularly is the most important step because it can help find changes early, before cancer develops, or find cancer early when it may be more treatable. Cervical cancer screening types and frequency depend on someone’s age and risk factors.
Primary HPV test every 5 years is the preferred option.
If that is not available, co-testing every 5 years or a Pap test every 3 years are other options.
How to Schedule Your Screening
If you are due for a cervical cancer screening or have questions about what test is right for you, talk with your provider.
You can contact your healthcare provider to schedule your screening.
Search our online provider directory for a current list of in-network providers and facilities at www.phs.org/directory.
Call the customer service number on the back of your Presbyterian Health Plan member ID card.
Clinical information based on recommendations provided by the American Cancer Society and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
