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Cervical screenings near you in TN and VA
Cervical cancer is a serious health concern, but regular screening can help find problems early.
Medical organizations like the American Cancer Society and the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommend routine cervical screening for people with a cervix. These screenings help detect abnormal changes early when treatment works best.
It’s important that you speak to your provider to help you understand the best timing for your cervical cancer screenings.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. The majority of cervical cancer – over 97% of cases – is caused by a long-lasting infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Some people refer to this as “HPV cancer.”
There are usually no symptoms with cervical cancer, which is why regular screening is so important.
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Cervical cancer symptoms and warning signs
Early cervical cancer often has no symptoms. However, as cervical problems develop, some people may notice:
- Unexplained or excessive vaginal bleeding
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Change in bleeding pattern, such as:
- bleeding between periods
- heavier bleeding than usual
- bleeding for a longer time than usual
- Bleeding after sex
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Vaginal pain or discomfort
- Urinary issues, such as frequent urination or leaking
- Watery vaginal discharge or other changes in vaginal discharge
- Fatigue or weight loss
These may be signs of cervical cancer, but other conditions can also cause them. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk with your provider right away.
What is a cervical screening?
A cervical screening is a test that looks for changes in the cells of the cervix. It helps your doctor find abnormal cervical cells before they turn into cancer.
Cervical screening may include:
- A pap smear, also called a papanicolaou test
- An HPV test checkup, also called a papillomavirus test
Your provider may conduct both of these tests at the same time.
People sometimes refer to cervical cancer screenings as smear checks or cervical tests.
Cervical screening vs. pap smears
There is often confusion about the differences between pap smears and cervical cancer screenings.
Pap smears
Pap smears take a sample of cells that can be examined under a microscope. This was the original test designed to catch cervical cancer early.
Cervical cancer screenings
While pap smears are included in cervical cancer screenings, tests now include checking for the Human Papillomavirus that causes these changes. Your doctor will help you find the type of testing that is right for you.
Cervical cancer age and screening guidelines
Cervical screening usually starts at age 21 for most women, ending at age 65. Your provider will help you decide when to do a cervical screening test based on your age and health history.
How often cervical cancer screening is needed depends on your age and test type:
Ages 21 – 29
- Pap smear every three years
Ages 30 – 65
- Pap smear alone every three years, or
- Pap smear and HPV testing every five years, or
- HPV testing alone every five years
What if my pap smear is abnormal?
An abnormal pap does not mean cancer. It means that cells look different and require additional screening.
Your provider will walk you through next steps, which may include:
- Repeat testing
- An HPV test, if it was not done already
- A colposcopy procedure, which uses a special colposcopy scope to look closely at the cervix
- In some cases, a cervical biopsy
Can I have a cervical screening if I’ve had a hysterectomy?
People who have had a total hysterectomy (meaning the cervix was removed) may no longer need cervical screening, especially if it wasn’t related to cervical cancer or high-risk precancerous changes. Talk to your provider about what is right for you.
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Our team can help you take the first step toward early detection by setting up a visit with a primary care provider to discuss cervical screenings.
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HPV vaccine and cervical cancer prevention
Most cervical cancer cases – as well as many cases of anal, vaginal, vulvar and oropharyngeal cancers – can be prevented with the HPV vaccine.
It is recommended that all adolescents routinely get vaccinated between the ages of 11 and 12.
This virus is passed between partners, so both males and females should get vaccinated. Vaccinations are performed up to age 26, but can sometimes be continued in certain circumstances. Your provider can guide you on your options for vaccination.
The HPV vaccination is a vital tool in the prevention of cervical cancer. However, even those who are vaccinated should still screen for cervical cancer regularly, as the vaccine does not prevent all types of HPV.
Frequently asked questions about cervical screening
A cervical screening is a test that checks the cervix for changes that could lead to cervical cancer. It helps find problems early, before cancer develops.
Cervical screenings look for abnormal cervical cells or infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is the main cause of cervical cancer.
During the exam, you’ll lie on an exam table while your provider uses a small tool to gently open the vagina so the cervix can be seen. A small brush is used to collect cells from the cervix.
The test usually takes only a few minutes. Most people report feeling mild pressure with no pain.
Most people should start cervical cancer screening at age 21, even if they aren’t sexually active.
How often cervical cancer screening is done depends on your age, the type of test used and your health history.
Most people are screened every three to five years. Your provider will help guide you through the type of screenings and the proper timing of these screenings for your personal situation.
No, a urine test cannot detect cervical cancer. Cervical screening requires cells collected directly from the cervix.
Yes. A pap smear is usually safe during pregnancy. However, hormonal changes during pregnancy can sometimes affect results. If your results are abnormal, your provider will walk you through any next steps.
After your test is performed, your provider will contact you with results. If a follow-up is needed, they will explain any of the next steps and answer your questions.
Yes. Even if you’ve received the HPV vaccine, you should continue cervical cancer screening. The vaccine prevents most, but not all, HPV-related cancers.
People over 65 who have had regular screening with normal results may be able to stop screening. This decision should be made with your healthcare provider.
Where to schedule a cervical screening near you
If you’re searching for a cervical test or screening near you, Ballad Health offers cervical cancer screening services across northeast Tennessee and southwest Virginia.
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Our team can help you schedule an appointment with a provider to speak about cervical cancer screenings.
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