Health Tip: Getting a Pap Test

Who needs one and when

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(HealthDay News) -- A Pap test (Pap smear) collects a sample of cells from the cervix to look for any abnormalities or changes. It's often used to help diagnose infections or cervical cancer.

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The National Women's Health Information Center offers these guidelines for whom should have a Pap test, and how often:

• Women younger than age 30 should get an annual Pap test.
• Women age 30 and older with three consecutive annual Pap tests with normal results should get a new test every two-to-three years, with their doctor's approval.
• Women aged 65 to 70 with no abnormal Pap tests in the last 10 years may no longer need the test, but should confirm this with their doctors.
• An annual Pap test is needed for any woman regardless of age who has a compromised immune system, is HIV-positive, or whose mother was exposed to a chemical called DES (diethylstilbestrol) during pregnancy.

-- Diana Kohnle