PAP TESTS, HPV, AND CERVICAL HEALTH
Screening, answers, and follow-up
Cervical cancer screening can identify HPV infection or cell changes before cancer develops. Depending on your age and medical history, screening may involve an HPV test, a Pap test, or both.
A Pap test is only one part of women’s preventive care. You may still benefit from regular well-woman visits in years when cervical screening is not due.
If your result is abnormal
An abnormal screening result does not mean you have cancer. It means additional review, repeat testing, or a diagnostic procedure may be recommended. We explain what the result means and the next step based on your age, history, and the specific finding.
Follow-up care
Depending on the result, follow-up may include repeat HPV/Pap testing, colposcopy, biopsy, or treatment such as LEEP. Patients with prior abnormal results or certain medical conditions may need a different schedule from routine screening.