How Can a Woman Help Prevent Cervical Cancer?

A Pap test is the best way you can protect yourself from cervical cancer. You should have a Pap test at least once every 3 years, beginning by age 21. Women who have sex before age 21 should get a Pap test approximately 3 years after the first time having sex.

If you turn 21 years old and have not had sex yet, you should still get a Pap test. You should continue to have Pap tests at least once every 3 years throughout your life. Depending on the results, your doctor may recommend that you have the test more often than that.