Cervical cancer screening looks for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and/or abnormal cervical cells before cancer develops. Screening can prevent many cervical cancers by finding precancerous changes early. For a broader overview of causes, symptoms, prevention, and HPV vaccination, see our cervical cancer guide.
What Is a Pap Test?
A Pap test, also called cervical cytology, collects cells from the cervix and checks them for abnormal changes that could become cancer over time.
What Is an HPV Test?
An HPV test looks for high-risk types of HPV linked to cervical cancer. Most HPV infections clear on their own, but persistent infection with certain high-risk types can cause cervical cell changes. HPV types that cause genital warts are generally different from the high-risk types most strongly linked to cervical cancer.
2026 Screening Schedule for Average-Risk Patients
ACOG updated its cervical cancer screening guidance in 2026. For average-risk people with a cervix:
- Ages 21–29: cervical cytology (Pap test) alone every 3 years.
- Ages 30–65: clinician-collected primary high-risk HPV testing every 5 years is the preferred option when available.
- Ages 30–65: co-testing with HPV plus Pap every 5 years is an acceptable alternative.
- Ages 30–65: Pap testing alone every 3 years may still be used when primary HPV testing or co-testing is not available, or after informed discussion with a clinician.
- Patient-collected HPV testing: may be an option every 3 years for some average-risk patients when an FDA-approved test is used and appropriate clinical follow-up is available.
Quick Screening Summary
| Age or situation | Typical average-risk approach |
|---|---|
| 21–29 | Pap test every 3 years |
| 30–65 | Primary high-risk HPV testing every 5 years is preferred when available |
| 30–65 alternatives | HPV/Pap co-testing every 5 years or Pap testing every 3 years |
| Over 65 | Screening may stop after adequate negative prior screening and no high-risk history |
This table summarizes routine screening for average-risk patients only. Previous abnormal results, immune suppression, cervical precancer or cancer, DES exposure, or other high-risk factors can change the schedule.
Before and After a Screening Test
Tell the clinician about pregnancy, previous abnormal Pap or HPV results, cervical procedures, immune-system conditions, and any recent vaginal medicines or symptoms. After the test, ask when results should be available and what follow-up is needed if an HPV or Pap result is abnormal. Screening works best when recommended follow-up is completed, not simply when a sample is collected.
When Can Screening Stop?
Routine screening is generally not needed after age 65 if a person has had adequate recent negative screening and no high-risk history. People who have not been adequately screened or who have a higher-risk history may need to continue.
What If You Had a Hysterectomy?
If the cervix was removed and there is no history of cervical cancer or a high-grade precancerous lesion, routine cervical screening is generally not recommended. If the cervix remains, screening usually continues according to age and risk.
Who Needs a Different Screening Plan?
These routine intervals do not apply to everyone. People with HIV, significant immune suppression, in-utero DES exposure, a history of high-grade cervical precancer, or cervical cancer may need a different follow-up plan.
Does an Abnormal Pap or HPV Test Mean Cancer?
No. An abnormal Pap result or positive high-risk HPV test does not automatically mean cancer. It means follow-up is needed. Depending on the result and medical history, follow-up may include repeat testing, HPV genotyping, colposcopy, or biopsy.
Can Screening Be Done During Pregnancy?
Screening may still be performed during pregnancy when it is due, but management of abnormal results can differ. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. For broader prenatal health information, see our pregnancy health guide.
Does HPV Vaccination Replace Screening?
No. HPV vaccination greatly reduces the risk of HPV-related cancers, but vaccinated people with a cervix should still follow recommended cervical screening schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both a Pap test and an HPV test?
Not always. The recommended test depends on age, risk, local availability, and the screening strategy used by your clinician.
Can I delay screening if I have no symptoms?
Cervical precancer often causes no symptoms. Screening is designed to find changes before symptoms develop, so being symptom-free is not a reason to skip recommended screening.
What happens after a positive HPV test?
Follow-up depends on the HPV type, current and previous test results, age, and risk history. A positive result does not by itself mean cancer.
Bottom Line
For average-risk patients aged 30–65, primary high-risk HPV testing every 5 years is the preferred 2026 screening approach when available, with co-testing every 5 years or Pap testing every 3 years as acceptable alternatives in appropriate settings. Individual risk factors can change the schedule.
Reliable Source
Last reviewed for medical accuracy: September 2026.