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Should A Pap Smear Test Be Done Every Three Years?
Question: Having heard this evening on TV how women should get a Pap smear every three years as well as having their HPV (?) tested, I am not sure I qualify. I'm 76 and had a total hysterectomy in 1986.
Brief Answer:
you might go for vault examination
Detailed Answer:
Dear madam, I understand your concern.
In my opinion pap smear screening starts after 21 years of age to 65 years. HPV vaccine is indicated between 9 to 26 years of age.
In your case as you are total hysterectamized there might be no chance of cancer cervix because uterus is completely removed along with cervix.
Every 3 yrly screening with pap smear is done in those
1. With intact uterus 21 to 65 years of age
2. Subtotal hysterectomy where in cervix is spared.
3. If hysterectomy is done for any cancer or precancerous lesions of cervix.
You might go for vault examination and testing as you don't come under any of the above criteria.
Hope this satisfies your query.
you might go for vault examination
Detailed Answer:
Dear madam, I understand your concern.
In my opinion pap smear screening starts after 21 years of age to 65 years. HPV vaccine is indicated between 9 to 26 years of age.
In your case as you are total hysterectamized there might be no chance of cancer cervix because uterus is completely removed along with cervix.
Every 3 yrly screening with pap smear is done in those
1. With intact uterus 21 to 65 years of age
2. Subtotal hysterectomy where in cervix is spared.
3. If hysterectomy is done for any cancer or precancerous lesions of cervix.
You might go for vault examination and testing as you don't come under any of the above criteria.
Hope this satisfies your query.
Note: Revert back with your gynae reports to get a clear medical analysis by our expert Gynecologic Oncologist. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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