A Pap test is a routine part of a well-woman exam. It is one of the best ways to find cervical cancer early. Because of Pap tests, fewer women in the U.S. get cervical cancer each year.
January 9, 2026
Contributed by: Maureen Suster, MD / OB/GYN
Understanding why Pap tests matter — and what your results mean — can help you take charge of your health. MetroHealth OBGYN Maureen Suster, MD, explains what you should know.
Cervical Health: What Your Pap Test Really Tells You
During a Pap test, your provider gently uses a small brush to collect cells from your cervix. These cells are looked at under a microscope to check for any changes that could lead to cancer.
Depending on your age and medical history, your provider may test for HPV (human papillomavirus). HPV is a common virus, and most cervical cancers start with an HPV infection.
The Power of Prevention
Pap tests can find early cell changes before they turn into cancer. Finding problems early gives you the best chance for successful treatment. When providers find cervical cancer in the beginning stages, the five-year survival rate is 91%.
“Cervical cancer is one of those diseases where early detection is critical,” Dr. Suster says. “If we can detect abnormal cells early, we can treat them before they become cancer.”
How Often Should You Get a Pap Test?
Dr. Suster says all women should start Pap test screening at age 21. How often you need one depends on your age, health history and past results.
General guidelines for most women:
- Ages 21-29: Pap test every three years
- Ages 30-65: Co-testing — a Pap test plus HPV test — every five years
- Over age 65: You may stop screening if you’ve had normal results for the last 10 years
Co-testing uses the same sample to check for HPV and abnormal cells. It’s an efficient way to detect the presence of HPV. But providers don’t recommend it for all women, Dr. Suster says.
“We typically don’t test younger women in their 20s for HPV. They tend to be healthier and have strong immune systems,” she says. “They’re more likely to clear the virus from their bodies without needing further intervention.”
Instead, providers reserve co-testing for women over 30. At that age, your body is less able to clear an HPV infection that could lead to cancer.
Having your Pap tests on time is equally important, she says.
“It’s important to stay on schedule with your Pap tests. Regular screening is the best way to prevent cervical cancer,” she says. “Women who come in for their appointments as recommended every year are in a good place for lowering their risk of getting cancer. It’s the best strategy.”
Understanding Your Pap Test Results
Most Pap test results are ready in about two weeks. HPV test results usually come back in three to five days. The findings will determine any next steps you may need.
- Normal result: No abnormal cells were found.
- Abnormal result: This does not mean you have cancer. It means you need more testing.
It’s important to understand that an abnormal result does not mean you have a gynecological cancer. It means you need more testing and evaluation. This may include an exam called colposcopy. During this procedure, your provider will directly examine your cervix through a magnifying glass to see if there are any signs of precancer or cancer. They may also take small samples (biopsies) to check for precancer or cancer.
Sometimes results are unclear. One example is ASCUS, which means the cells look slightly different but not clearly abnormal. In this case, your provider may do an HPV test to learn more.
If you get an abnormal test result, a MetroHealth OB-GYN provider will follow up with you to discuss these testing and treatment options.
Pap tests and other women’s health services are important for your well-being. You deserve a provider who listens and makes you feel seen and heard. Find the MetroHealth OB-GYN expert that’s right for you.
Schedule Your Screening with MetroHealth
High-quality women’s health care in Northeast Ohio, including Pap tests, is an important part of staying healthy. At MetroHealth, our women’s health providers use state-of-the-art testing resources to deliver the most accurate results. We also make it easy to access the services you need, including specialty care.
“We have many locations in the community, so we’re able to reach and serve women where they live,” Dr. Suster says. “We give women the opportunity to get vital care close to home.”
Call 216-778-4444 to schedule an appointment with a MetroHealth Women’s Health provider or visit www.metrohealth.org/obgyn to learn more.
Your Questions Answered
Q: Does a Pap test take a long time?
A: No. A Pap test is a quick procedure that only takes a few minutes. Your provider usually completes it as part of your annual pelvic exam.
Q: Can you have a Pap test while you have your period?
A: It’s better to wait. Blood can make the test harder for the lab to read.
Q: If I got the HPV vaccine, do I still need a Pap test?
A: Yes. The HPV vaccine protects you against several high-risk types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. But there are more than 100 strains of HPV. The vaccine does not protect you from all of them.
Q: Who should get the HPV vaccine?
A: HPV vaccination is recommended for everyone — males and females — through age 26. Guidelines recommend following this schedule:
- Ages 9 to 14: Start vaccination between ages 9 and 12, providing two doses six to 12 months apart.
- Ages 15 to 26: Deliver three doses at one month, two months and six months.
- Age 27 to 45: Talk with a doctor. If you haven’t been exposed to the virus, you may still benefit from vaccination.
