Review the cervical cancer age guidelines below. Make an appointment with your gynecologist for a well-woman’s health check if you fall within the age ranges mentioned* or if you experience any early signs or symptoms of cervical cancer.

Beginning at age 21, or 3 years after you become sexually active, get screened.

Have a Pap test and Pelvic exam at least once every three years.

If you are sexually active, check with your health professional about having an HPV screening test. This test looks for the Human Papillomavirus virus which can cause unwanted cell changes in your body.

Beginning at age 65 to 70,

Ask your health professional if you need to continue getting regular pap tests and pelvic exams.

Talk to your preteen children (boys and girls) about the human papillomavirus (HPV vaccine).

Talk to your health professional about protecting your children from cervical, penile and other cancers, and sexually related diseases. 

*Cervical cancer is rare for women in their teens. Only 0.1 in 100,000 women between the age of 15 and 19 will get cervical cancer, according to the American Society of Cytopathology guidelines.