A Pap test is recommended for women age 21 and older. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends routine screening for women ages 21 to 65 years every two years. More frequent Pap tests may be needed if an abnormal test result is found or if you are at high risk ofcervical cancer.

Combining a Pap test with a human papillomavirus ( HPV ) test can safely extend the interval between cervical cancerscreenings from three years to five years in many women between the ages of 30-65, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).

Also according to USPSTF guidelines, HPV testing is not recommended for women in their 20s, because people in that age group can have HPV infections that resolve without treatment.