Should A Pap Smear Test Be Done Every Three Years?

Posted on Thu, 6 Nov 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 6 Nov 2014 Answered on

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Having heard this evening on TV how women should get a Pap smear every three years as well as having their HPV (?) tested, I am not sure I qualify. I'm 76 and had a total hysterectomy in 1986.

Answered by Dr. Srilatha Myaka (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
you might go for vault examination

Detailed Answer:
Dear madam, I understand your concern.

In my opinion pap smear screening starts after 21 years of age to 65 years. HPV vaccine is indicated between 9 to 26 years of age.

In your case as you are total hysterectamized there might be no chance of cancer cervix because uterus is completely removed along with cervix.

Every 3 yrly screening with pap smear is done in those
1. With intact uterus 21 to 65 years of age
2. Subtotal hysterectomy where in cervix is spared.
3. If hysterectomy is done for any cancer or precancerous lesions of cervix.

You might go for vault examination and testing as you don't come under any of the above criteria.

Hope this satisfies your query.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad