Why Regular Pap Smear Screenings Matter for Women
Pap smears are one of the most effective tools for detecting cervical cancer early — often before any symptoms appear. Regular screening not only helps protect your reproductive health but also saves lives.
Here's what you need to know about when to get tested:
All women, especially those who are married or have been sexually active, are advised to have regular Pap smears — at least once every three years starting from the age of 21, after two consecutive years of normal results one year apart.
| Aged 21–29: Every 3 years | Cervical cancer usually develops slowly and is less common in this age group. Regular Pap smears can help detect any precancerous changes early. |
| Aged 30–65: Every 3 to 5 years | The risk of cervical cancer increases in this age range. Regular screenings can help detect abnormalities or early signs of cancer. |
| Aged 65 and above | If a woman has had regular screenings with normal results and no history of precancerous cells, continued screening may not be necessary. However, this should be discussed with a healthcare provider based on her individual health history. |
