Pap Tests & Cervical Screening

Cervical screening checks the health of the cervix to find changes early — long before they would ever become a problem. It's one of the most effective forms of cancer prevention available, and in BC the program has recently changed in ways worth understanding.

A Pap test (Pap smear) involves gently collecting a small sample of cells from the cervix to check for changes. It's quick, done during a routine visit, and while it isn't most people's favourite appointment, it's brief. Increasingly, screening also looks for HPV (human papillomavirus), the main cause of cervical cell changes.

Under BC's current program, routine cervical screening is recommended for people with a cervix aged 25 to 69. Screening is generally done every 3 to 5 years depending on your screening method and history — not every year. Screening isn't routinely recommended before age 25. Your physician will confirm what's right for you based on your individual history.

BC now offers HPV-based cervix self-screening as an option — a simpler swab that, for many eligible people, can be done themselves. It's available to those aged 25 to 69 who have a cervix, are due for screening, and have ever had sexual contact. Your physician can discuss whether self-screening or a clinician-collected sample suits you.

Cervical screening is part of the women's health care our physicians provide. Book with an iCollab family physician offering women's health care, or ask at the walk-in clinic about getting screening arranged. Results are followed up and explained, with next steps coordinated if anything needs further attention.

This is general information, not medical advice. Screening recommendations depend on your individual history — your physician will confirm what applies to you.