Pap Smear & HPV Testing in Englewood, CO
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, thanks to regular screening. At Cherry Hills Midwifery, Obstetrics, & Gynecology, our providers have screened thousands of Denver-area women with gentle, efficient Pap smears and HPV testing, and we guide you through clear next steps if a result ever comes back abnormal.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is a Pap Smear?
A Pap smear is a quick screening test for cervical cancer. During the test, your provider collects a small sample of cells from the cervix, which is checked in a lab for cancerous or precancerous changes and, in many cases, for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV). The test is named for Dr. George Papanikolaou, who showed that it is a reliable way to detect cervical cell changes long before they become cancer.
What Is HPV?
HPV is a very common viral infection spread through skin-to-skin and sexual contact. Most people will have HPV at some point, and in most cases the body clears it without any problems. Certain high-risk types, however, can cause precancerous changes in the cervix. When found early, these changes are easily treated, which is why routine screening is so important.
The HPV vaccine protects against the types most likely to cause cervical cancer and genital warts. It is recommended for preteens and young adults and may be offered up to age 45 based on your provider’s guidance.
Who Should Get a Pap Smear?
Cervical cancer screening generally begins at age 21. Current guidelines recommend:
- Ages 21 to 29: a Pap smear every three years
- Ages 30 to 65: a Pap smear every three years, an HPV test every five years, or both together every five years
- Over 65: screening may stop if prior results have been consistently normal
Your provider may recommend more frequent testing based on your history, past abnormal results, or other risk factors. Even when you do not need a Pap smear, an annual well woman exam remains important for breast exams, contraception, and overall health.
What Happens If My Pap Smear Is Abnormal?
An abnormal result does not mean you have cancer. Often it reflects mild changes caused by HPV that resolve on their own. Depending on your result, your provider may recommend HPV testing on the same sample, a repeat test, or a colposcopy, an in-office exam that uses a magnifying instrument to look closely at the cervix and take small biopsies if needed. If precancerous cells are found, treatments such as a LEEP procedure can remove them. Our gynecology team will explain every step.
How Long Does a Pap Smear Take?
A Pap smear takes just a few minutes and is usually performed during your well woman visit. You may feel brief pressure, but the test should not be painful, and you can return to your normal activities right away. Results are typically available within one to two weeks and can be viewed in our patient portal.
Regular screening also pairs well with STI testing for women who are sexually active. To schedule your Pap smear or HPV test, call (303) 788-0808.
Pap Smear & HPV FAQs
Does a Pap smear hurt?
Most women feel only mild pressure or brief discomfort. The test takes just a few minutes.
Should I schedule my Pap smear around my period?
If possible, schedule when you are not on your period, as heavy bleeding can affect results. Avoid intercourse, douching, and vaginal products for 48 hours beforehand.
Does an abnormal Pap smear mean I have cancer?
No. Most abnormal results are caused by HPV-related changes that are not cancer and often resolve on their own. Follow-up testing determines next steps.
Can HPV be treated?
There is no treatment for the virus itself, but most infections clear on their own, and precancerous cell changes caused by HPV can be effectively treated.
Do I still need a Pap smear if I had the HPV vaccine?
Yes. The vaccine does not protect against every high-risk HPV type, so routine screening is still recommended.
Do I need a Pap smear after a hysterectomy?
If your cervix was removed for non-cancerous reasons, you may no longer need screening. Your provider will advise you based on your history.
How will I get my results?
Results are usually available within one to two weeks in our patient portal, and our team will contact you about any follow-up.