MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network

Learning About Cervical Cancer Screening

Location of reproductive organs in pelvic area, with close-up of uterus, vagina, and cervix.

What is a cervical cancer screening test?

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Cervical cancer screening tests check the cells on the cervix for changes that could lead to cancer. Watch Why should I get screened for cervical cancer (video) or visit screeningforlife.ca to learn more.

Two tests can be used to screen for cervical cancer. They may be used alone or together.

A Pap test.: A Pap test is the main screening test for cervical cancer in Alberta. This test looks for changes in the cells of the cervix. Some of these cell changes could lead to cancer.
A human papillomavirus (HPV) test.: This test looks for the HPV virus. Some high-risk types of HPV can cause cell changes that could lead to cervical cancer. This test may not be available in all areas or covered by all provincial health plans.

When should you have a screening test?

In Alberta, it is recommended that you begin having regular Pap tests starting at age 25, or 3 years after becoming sexually active, whichever is later.

Watch How do I get screened for cervical cancer (video) or visit screeningforlife.ca to learn about getting a Pap test in Alberta.

Women younger than 25

If you are in this age group, routine screenings are not recommended.

Women 25 to 69

If you are in this age group, screening is recommended every 3 years.

Women 70 and older

If you are in this age group and have had 3 negative Pap tests results in a row in the last 10 years, screening is no longer needed. If you haven't had regular screenings, continue getting tested until you have 3 negative test results.

If you’ve had a hysterectomy, speak to your healthcare provider about whether you still need to be screened.

What do the results of cervical cancer screening mean?

After you’ve had your Pap test, the sample will be sent to the lab. There are three possible results that you may receive:

Your result is normal.
This means that no cervical cell changes were found. You should continue with routine screening.

Your result is unsatisfactory.
This means that the lab most likely was unable to read the sample. You’ll be asked to repeat your Pap test in 3 months.

Your result is abnormal.
This means that the cervical cell changes were found. You should follow-up with your healthcare provider so that changes in the cells of your cervix can be watched closely and treated, if needed.

The next step may be a colposcopy or treatment to remove or destroy the abnormal cells.

Your doctor will recommend a follow-up plan based on your results and your age.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter P919 in the search box to learn more about "Learning About Cervical Cancer Screening".

Adapted with permission from copyrighted materials from Healthwise, Incorporated (Healthwise). This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty and is not responsible or liable for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.