By the way, doctor: How long should I keep getting Pap tests?

Q. Is there an age when a woman no longer needs a Pap smear?

A. Most women are used to getting a Pap test every year or two as part of their routine health care. A Pap test, or Pap smear, examines cells from the cervix to screen for cervical cancer or abnormal cells that could progress to cancer if left untreated.

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