Information: Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer screening involves checking for cell changes or the HPV virus that can lead to cancer, with the Pap test and HPV test being the main methods. Finding HPV or abnormal cells early allows doctors to treat small problems before they turn into cancer, making cervical cancer often preventable.
Pap test
A Pap test looks for abnormal or unhealthy cells on the cervix.
During the test, a clinician gently uses a small brush to collect cells from the cervix. These cells are examined in a lab to see if there are any changes that might lead to cancer in the future.
HPV test
An HPV test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the virus that causes most cervical cancers. This test uses a small brush to collect cells, but the lab checks for the virus itself rather than looking at cell shape or appearance. The virus itself, as an infection, can lead to cell changes over time.
Pap and HPV co-tests
A combination of both tests done together, the tests look for both the virus and the resulting cell changes.
Considerations
- Screening schedule: The specific tests and frequency depend on your age and health history. Ask your PCP what is right for you
- Results: An abnormal result doesn’t automatically mean cancer. It means more investigation is needed.
- Follow-up: If an abnormal result occurs, your PCP will likely recommend further testing.
The information is adapted from United States Preventative Task Force Cervical Cancer Screening, Dated 08/21/2018 at Recommendation: Cervical Cancer: Screening | United States Preventive Services Taskforce and adapted from text generated by Gemini.” Gemini, Google, 18 Nov 2025 and from OpenAI on 11/18/2025 using “what is cervical cancer screening in plain language with more information about pap and HPV tests”
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