A Pap test (also called Pap smear) is recommended every three years for women between the ages of 21 and 65. During a Pap test, the provider collects cells from the cervix using a brush or small spatula. This is a specific screening test for cervical cancer. Your provider may screen you more often, based on your health history and previous test results.

Screenings at your well-woman visit are tailored to your age, health history and risk factors. Most well-woman visits include:

• Basic health, including height, weight and blood pressure
• Updates to health history, including medications and family history
• Lifestyle information, including exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption and diet
• Clinical breast exam to check your breasts for lumps, thickening or changes
• Pelvic exam to check sexual health

As you age, your provider may perform these tests:

Ages 18 to 29

• Pap smear for cervical cancer screening begins at 21
• STI screening based on risk/activity
• Blood pressure, body mass index, general health baseline

Ages 30 to 39

• Pap smear plus HPV co-test options
• Breast awareness and self-exam guidance
• Mental health, birth control and fertility conversations

Ages 40 to 64

• Annual mammogram discussions and referrals
• Perimenopause and hormone changes
• Cervical cancer screening, per schedule

Ages 65 and up

• Cervical screening possibly discontinued based on history
• Bone density, cardiovascular and cognitive health considerations
• Menopause and post-menopause management

Some women may feel nervous about visiting a gynecologist or sexual health provider. Common misconceptions include:

“I only need to go to the doctor if something is wrong.”
Many sexual cancers, including cervical cancer, do not have symptoms until later. Regular women’s health screening may catch cancer early, at its most treatable stages.

“I only need OB/GYN care if I’m pregnant.”
Well-woman care is lifelong, not just for pregnancy.

“The exam will be painful.”
There may be some pressure or brief discomfort during a pelvic or breast exam, but healthcare providers are trained to make you as comfortable as possible. You can always ask your provider to walk you through the steps and tell you what to expect.

Your women’s healthcare provider is a powerful ally for lifelong sexual, reproductive and overall health.

• Every year, even if you have no symptoms
• If you experience unusual bleeding, pelvic pain, changes in your periods, menopause symptoms or new sexual health concerns
• If you have questions or concerns
• If you have not seen a women’s health provider in a while

What to Bring:

• List of current medications and supplements
• Date of last period
• Insurance card
• Questions written down in advance

What to Avoid (If Possible):

• Scheduling during the heaviest days of your period. You CAN have a pelvic exam during your period but you may reschedule if you are uncomfortable.
• Intercourse (penetrative sex) or vaginal products 24 to 48 hours before (if Pap test will be performed)

During the Appointment: 

Most well-woman exams take about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your health history, questions and any recommended screenings. If you also have a mammogram, that typically takes an additional 15 to 30 minutes.

Your provider will review your medical history, medications and any changes since the last visit. Your weight, height and blood pressure will be checked.

You’ll have time to change into a gown in a private exam room before the exam begins. Depending on your age, health history and needs, your visit may include:

• A clinical breast exam to check for lumps or other changes
• A pelvic exam to evaluate your reproductive health
• A Pap test, if recommended based on your age and screening guidelines

If a pelvic exam is recommended, you will lie comfortably on the exam table while your provider examines your vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries for any signs of abnormalities or changes. A speculum may be used to examine the cervix, and your provider may gently feel the uterus and ovaries as part of the exam

Your provider will explain each step of the exam, answer your questions and help you feel as comfortable as possible. The exam room is a judgment-free space, and you can ask to pause or stop the exam at any time.

Topics to Discuss During a Well-woman Visit

• Birth control and contraception options
• Fertility planning or concerns
• Irregular or painful periods
• Perimenopause or menopause symptoms
• Sexual health, discomfort or changes in sex drive
• Mental health as it relates to hormones or life stage

Children and teens have unique health needs. Our providers recommend a gynecological visit, for those assigned female at birth, starting ages 11 to 13. The first visit does not include a pelvic or breast exam. Pap tests are not recommended until age 21. The goal is education, getting a baseline of the child or teen’s overall health and building a relationship with a provider. Norton Children’s Gynecology provides a full range of pediatric gynecologic services.