When is it done?
Routine screening for cervical cancer with Papanicolaou (Pap) testing is recommended for all women who are or have been sexually active and who have a cervix. Pap smears should begin with the onset of sexual activity and should be repeated at least every 3 years There is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against an upper age limit for Pap testing, but recommendations can be made on other grounds to discontinue regular testing after age 65 in women who have had regular previous screenings in which the smears have been consistently normal.