A Pap smear is a routine cervical cancer screening test recommended for women between the ages of 21 and 65. It involves checking the cells in your cervix for signs of precancerous cells and abnormalities, reports DHHS.

Why do you need a Pap smear?

According to DHHS, a Pap smear can help you avoid cervical cancer by catching it in its precancerous stages so it can be effectively treated.

Who should have a Pap smear?

The DHHS recommends having a Pap smear if you are a woman between the ages of 21 and 65 years.

How often should a Pap smear be repeated?

You should have a Pap smear test every three years if you are between the ages of 21 and 29 years. If you are between the ages of 30 and 65, the DHHS recommends having a Pap test every three years, or once every five years if you combine your Pap test with an HPV test.

Where can I get a Pap smear in Tacoma?

You can get a Pap smear from your doctor during a well-woman exam or at an urgent care center that offers this service. Type “pap smear near me” into your Internet browser to find a nearby provider, or use Solv to locate quality, top-rated providers in your area that offer a Pap smear test.

How long do Pap smear results take?

Pap smear results usually come back within one to three weeks, says the DHHS. It recommends contacting your doctor’s office for results if you haven’t heard back within three weeks.

How do I prepare for a Pap smear in Tacoma?

A Pap smear test requires very little preparation, according to the NLM. The NLM says that the best way to prepare for your Pap test is to refrain from using tampons, douche products, vaginal creams, and birth control foams two to three days before your test. It also recommends not having sex during this time, and rescheduling your appointment for another day if you are on your period.

Does a Pap smear test for HPV?

According to the NLM, a Pap smear does not test for HPV. However, you can combine your Pap smear with an HPV test, and have this co-test done every five years. Consult with your doctor regarding when you should have an HPV test based on your age and screening history.

When should I get a Pap smear?

According to DHHS, you should have a Pap smear every three years after you turn 21 or once every five years after you turn 30 and want to combine your Pap smear with an HPV test.