Cervical cancer screening is a vital preventive measure that has helped reduce death rates from cervical cancer significantly. However, it’s still not clear when women should stop getting regular cervical cancer screenings.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women continue regular screening until age 65, while the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends stopping screenings at age 65 when adequate prior screening has been done, and preferably after a negative HPV test. In this article, we’ll take a look at why screening is necessary, the recommended age to stop screening, and why it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about screening guidelines that are right for you.

What is Cervical Cancer Screening?

Cervical cancer screening involves testing for precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix. The most common screening methods are the Pap test (or Pap smear) and the HPV test.

The Pap test involves collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope to detect any abnormalities. If abnormalities are found, further diagnostic tests may be done.

In contrast, the HPV test looks for the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the most common cause of cervical cancer. An HPV test can be used alone or in combination with a Pap test.

Why is Screening Necessary?

Cervical cancer screening is necessary because early detection can lead to better outcomes. Cervical cancer starts with precancerous changes in the cells of the cervix that can progress to cancer if left untreated.

Screening helps detect these changes early, so they can be treated before they become cancerous. This means that women with abnormal Pap test or HPV results can get the treatment they need before cancer develops.

When Should You Start Screening?

Most medical organizations recommend starting cervical cancer screening at age 21, regardless of sexual history. Women aged 21-29 should get a Pap test every three years.

According to the ACS, women aged 30-65 should undergo regular screening with a Pap test every three years or a HPV test every five years. Women who are eligible for both tests may choose to have a Pap test and HPV test (co-testing) every five years.

When Should You Stop Screening?

The ACS recommends that women continue to undergo regular cervical cancer screening until age 65. While the USPSTF recommends stopping screening at age 65 when adequate prior screening has been done, and preferably after a negative HPV test.

This is because cervical cancer usually develops slowly, and most women who get it are over the age of 30.

Furthermore, certain factors can increase the risk of cervical cancer, even after age 65.

These factors include a history of cervical cancer or pre-cancer, exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero, weakened immune system, and not getting screened regularly. Women with these risk factors should continue screening beyond age 65.

What if You’ve Had a Hysterectomy?

For women who have had a hysterectomy, the need for cervical cancer screening depends on the type of hysterectomy they received and the reason for the hysterectomy.

If a woman had a total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) for non-cancerous reasons, she may not need regular cervical cancer screening.

However, if she had a partial hysterectomy (removal of the uterus only) or had a hysterectomy due to cervical cancer or pre-cancer, she should continue to undergo regular screening as recommended.

What if You are Vaccinated Against HPV?

The HPV vaccine helps prevent infection with the types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers. However, the vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV that can cause cancer.

Therefore, women who have been vaccinated against HPV still need to undergo regular cervical cancer screening as recommended by their healthcare provider.

Why is it Important to Talk to Your Healthcare Provider?

It’s crucial to talk to your healthcare provider about when to stop cervical cancer screening because the recommended age may vary based on your individual risk factors and medical history.

For example, if you have a history of abnormal Pap tests or an HPV infection, you may need more frequent screenings or continued screening beyond age 65.

Additionally, if you have a weakened immune system, you may need more frequent screening even after age 65. It’s crucial to discuss your risk factors and determine a screening schedule that’s right for you.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer screening is a crucial preventive measure for women, especially those over the age of 30. Regular screening helps detect precancerous changes early so that women can receive the treatment they need before cancer develops.

While the recommended age to stop screening may vary, it’s important to discuss your risk factors with your healthcare provider and determine a screening plan that’s right for you.