A pap test is a screening lab to check for cancer or pre-cancerous changes of the cervix and/or vagina, starting at the age of 21. The frequency of the pap test depends on age and previous pap results. This test can also screen for HPV starting at the age of 30.
A provider will review all abnormal pap results and make a specific follow up recommendation depending on the severity of the abnormal pap and the previous pap history. Some people will only need to wait and recheck the pap in a year at the next annual exam. Other people will need further evaluation with a minor procedure in clinic called a colposcopy.
Colposcopy is a minor in-clinic procedure to sample tissue from the cervix and/or vagina to further evaluate the abnormal changes on a pap. Sometimes a provider may see a lesion on the cervix or vagina during an exam and colposcopy can be used to further evaluate, regardless of pap history.
A provider will review the high-grade colposcopy findings and discuss next steps, specific to your history and results. High-grade findings on a colposcopy will often need another procedure to treat the affected area. Cold Knife Cone (CKC) or Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) are most often considered for treatment of moderate or severe changes on a colposcopy.
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil) is recommended for routine vaccination to all children starting at ages 11 or 12 to reduce the risk of cervical & other forms of HPV-related cancer. People aged 26 and under who have not completed the HPV vaccine series are encouraged to complete it. Some adults ages 27 to 45 may also be candidates to complete the HPV vaccine series and this should be discussed with your provider."