For years, it’s been standard practice for women over 30 to receive both an HPV test as well as a Pap test at the same time, every 3 years. Now, according to the Independent US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), the HPV test alone every 5 years is sufficient.

These changes are based on reviews of women’s results and outcomes over long periods of time. According to the USPSTF, there was “no increase in deaths whether women got both tests together or just the one test.”

While the sexually transmitted disease HPV is the cause of nearly all cervical cancer, doctors still suggest screening even if you’re not sexually active. Other factors like smoking and family of origin may still have an impact. That said, remaining in a monogamous, married relationship is the single best prevention for this and all other STD’s.

To read more about the guideline changes, click HERE.