Pap Test and HPV Test: What to Expect and How Often
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that screening can often prevent. The Pap test and the HPV test look for changes on the cervix long before they turn into cancer, usually when there are no symptoms at all. A short exam every few years is the best protection.
This article explains what each test checks, how often you need it at each age, what happens during the exam, and what an abnormal result usually means. For other tests that matter at different ages, see Preventive Screenings: What You Actually Need and When.
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Quick Answer
The Pap test checks cervical cells for changes caused by HPV, and the HPV test looks for the high-risk types of the virus that can cause cervical cancer (1). The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends a Pap test every 3 years from age 21. From age 30 to 65 you can choose an HPV test every 5 years, an HPV and Pap test together every 5 years, or a Pap test every 3 years (1).
What the Tests Check
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) explains the difference. The Pap test collects cells from the cervix so they can be checked for changes caused by HPV. It can also find other problems, such as an infection. The HPV test checks the cells for infection with high-risk types of HPV (1).
A cotest means both tests are done on the same sample. Most of the time you do not need to do anything different. Your provider decides which test to run based on your age and your history. The CDC adds that both tests can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early (2).
How Often You Need Them
Ages 21 to 29
The Task Force recommends starting at age 21 with a Pap test, then repeating it every 3 years (1). A normal result means you can usually wait three years until the next one (2).
Ages 30 to 65
You can choose one of three options: an HPV test every 5 years, an HPV and Pap cotest every 5 years, or a Pap test every 3 years (1). The American Cancer Society has a slightly different guideline. It starts at age 25 with an HPV test every 5 years through age 65 (1). Ask your provider which option your clinic follows.
After Age 65 and Other Cases
After age 65, talk with your provider. If you have been screened regularly with normal results, you may no longer need screening, but you may need to continue if recent results were abnormal or you have not been screened regularly (1). After a total hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and the cervix, screening is not needed if the surgery was done for reasons other than cancer (1).
What Happens During the Exam
The test is done during a short pelvic exam. The doctor uses an instrument called a speculum to look inside the vagina, and then collects a few cells from the outside of the cervix and from the canal inside it with a soft brush or a small spatula (1) (2). You may feel pressure or mild discomfort. Tell your provider if anything hurts, and ask them to go slowly or stop.
In some clinics you can collect the sample yourself during your appointment (1). This can be a good option if the exam makes you very anxious. Ask whether your clinic offers it.
In 2025 the FDA approved the first at-home device for collecting your own HPV test sample. It needs a prescription and is not recommended for some people, such as those who are pregnant (3). In one study, 95% of results matched clinician-collected samples (3). A positive result still needs follow-up with a provider.
Your Results
Results usually take about 1 to 3 weeks. If you have not heard back by then, call your provider (1). An abnormal result means that cell changes were found on the cervix, and the CDC says this usually does not mean you have cervical cancer (2).
The next step depends on what was found. Minor changes often go back to normal on their own, but more serious changes can turn into cancer if they are not removed (2). You may be asked to repeat the test or to have a closer look at the cervix with a procedure called colposcopy. Abnormal tissue can be removed, for example with a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) (1).
The earlier changes are found, the easier they are to treat (2). The NCI also notes that tests are not perfect. A false positive result can cause worry and extra tests, and a false negative can delay care if symptoms appear later (1). Ask your provider what your own result means.
If You Had the HPV Vaccine
The vaccine is a very good protection, but it does not cover every high-risk type of the virus. The NCI says that vaccinated people who have a cervix should still follow the screening recommendations (1).
Cost and Free Screening
Many insurance plans cover screening. If you are uninsured or have a low income, the CDC offers free or low-cost cervical cancer screening through its National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (2). Ask your clinic or local health department how to apply.
When to See a Doctor
Contact a healthcare professional if:
- You are due for screening, or you are not sure when you were last tested.
- You have never been screened, or you have not been screened for several years.
- You were told your result was abnormal and you have not had a follow-up.
- You have bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause.
- You have unusual discharge or pelvic pain that does not go away.
The CDC notes that cervical precancer usually does not cause pain or other symptoms, which is why screening matters even when you feel fine (2). For other gynecology visits, see When to See a Gynecologist.
Conclusion
The Pap test and the HPV test find cell changes on the cervix early, usually before there are any symptoms. Screening starts at 21, and the test and schedule depend on your age. The exam takes only a few minutes, and an abnormal result usually does not mean cancer. Keep screening even if you have had the HPV vaccine. If you are overdue, book a visit this month.
