January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month aka the perfect time to give your cervix a little extra appreciation. The good news? Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers thanks to modern screening.
Why Screening Matters
Most cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). HPV is very common and usually harmless but when it sticks around, it can cause cell changes. Screening finds those changes early, before cancer develops.
No symptoms? That’s normal. That’s why screening is so important.
The Newest Screening Recommendations
-Start at Age 25
If you have a cervix and are at average risk, start screening at 25.
-Best Test: HPV Test
HPV test every 5 years is now the preferred option
It looks directly for the virus that causes cervical cancer
-New Option: Self-Collection
Some people can collect their own vaginal sample for HPV testing
This can be done in a clinic - and in some cases, at home
If the result is normal, you repeat screening in about 3 years
-Other Acceptable Options
If HPV testing isn’t available:
HPV + Pap test (co-test): every 5 years
Pap test alone: every 3 years
Any screening is better than none!
-When Can Screening Stop?
You can usually stop around age 65 if:
Your recent tests were normal
You’ve had regular screening over the years
Your healthcare provider can help decide what’s right for you.
What If a Test Is Abnormal?
Take a deep breath - abnormal does not always mean cancer.
Next steps may include:
A closer exam of the cervix (colposcopy)
Removing abnormal cells
More frequent follow-up testing
These steps prevent cancer from ever forming.
The Big Takeaway
Cervical cancer is highly preventable
Screening saves lives
New options make screening easier than ever
This month, do one simple thing for your health: check if you’re up to date on screening and encourage someone else to do the same.
Your cervix will thank you.
New Guidelines for cervical cancer screening were put out in late 2025. Breaking down new vs old guidelines:
Old Guidelines | New Guidelines | |
Screening Start Age | Start screening at age 21 mainly with Pap tests. | Start screening at age 25 for average-risk individuals. |
Preferred Screening Tests & Intervals | Pap test (cytology) alone: every 3 years starting at 21. Or HPV + Pap (co-test): every 5 years beginning around age HPV test alone was not deemed the main preferred option yet. | Primary HPV testing alone is now the preferred method every 5 years for ages 25–65. Self-collection of HPV sample: This is a new option that allows people to collect their own vaginal sample (at home or in the clinic, and if the result is negative, can be repeated every 3 years. Co-test (HPV + Pap) every 5 years: still acceptable if primary HPV testing isn’t available. Pap test alone: every 3 years only if other tests aren’t available. |
When to Stop Screening | Stop at 65 if prior screenings were normal over the last 10 years. | Still stop around 60–65, but with clearer criteria which include Two negative primary HPV or co-tests before age 65. Or Three negative Pap tests in a row by age 65, If HPV/co-testing is not available. |
Summary of the Breakdown
✅ Screening begins later - age 25 instead of 21 for most people.
✅ HPV testing is now preferred, not Pap smears.
✅ Self-collection for HPV is a new option, expanding access.
✅ Stopping rules are more detailed, especially around negative HPV tests.
