New Guidelines for Pap Smears

New guidelines for pap smears were published on March 14, 2012. What's changed? The frequency in which the test should be performed has been greatly reduced. Additionally, it is recommended that all women 30+ be screened for HPV (Human Papilloma Virus).

New Guidelines for Pap Smears

Below is a summary of the new guidelines.

Please note that if there are abnormal findings on your previous pap or if you have received an HPV vaccine these guidelines will not apply to your unique situation.

Information Provided by: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians

If you're using hormonal birth control you may want to speak to your doctor about increased risk associated with the pill. It's important to check with your doctor regularly while taking hormonal birth control or if you develop symptoms of post-birth control syndrome.

While the new guidelines do mean less repeat paps, women should continue see their health care practitioner on an annual basis for physical exams and laboratory work.

About The Author

Dr. Jolene Brighten

Dr. Jolene Brighten is a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist, a Fellow of the American Board of Naturopathic Endocrinology (FABNE), a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP), a nutrition scientist, and a certified sex counselor through the Sexual Health Alliance. As a licensed physician maintaining an active DEA license and full prescriptive authority, her educational frameworks align with leading global standards, including ESHRE and The Menopause Society. She serves as a faculty member for the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M), acts as the Lead Researcher for the Brighten Essentials Research Division, and is currently directing ongoing scientific research initiatives to advance clinical care standards for women navigating complex endocrinology, neurodivergence, and tissue-specific hormone sensitivities.