Pap Smear Testing at Women’s Health Clinic in Bakersfield, CA

At Universal Primary Care, we are committed to preventive health and the early detection of disease for all our patients. One of the essential preventive screenings we offer is the Pap smear test, a simple procedure used to detect abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix—the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina.

During your visit, our experienced healthcare providers gently collect a small sample of cells from your cervix using a soft brush or spatula. This sample is then sent to a trusted laboratory for analysis, where specialists examine the cells under a microscope to look for any precancerous or cancerous changes.

The primary benefit of having regular Pap smear tests is the early identification of cervical cell changes. Detecting these changes before they develop into cervical cancer allows us to intervene early, significantly reducing your risk and improving outcomes. In addition to screening for cervical cancer, the Pap test can occasionally help identify infections or inflammation, further supporting your overall reproductive health.

Thanks to regular Pap smear screening, the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer have declined worldwide. We follow the latest medical guidelines, recommending that women begin Pap smear screening at age 21 and continue at intervals determined by your age, medical history, and individual risk factors. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized screening schedule that fits your needs.

At Universal Primary Care, we are dedicated to helping our patients stay healthy through preventive care, including cervical cancer screening. A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a simple and effective way to check for early signs of cervical cancer.

The recommended frequency for Pap smears depends on your age, health history, and individual risk factors. Our healthcare providers follow the latest medical guidelines to ensure you receive the best care:

Ages 21-29: We recommend a Pap smear every three years, as long as your results are normal.

Ages 30-65: You can choose to have a Pap smear combined with an HPV test every five years, or a Pap smear alone every three years, if your previous results have been normal.

After age 65: If you have had regular screenings with normal results, you may no longer need Pap smears. Our team will work with you to determine what’s best for your health.

Some patients may need more frequent or continued screening after age 65. This includes women with a history of cervical cancer, abnormal Pap results, HIV infection, weakened immune systems, or exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth. If any of these apply to you, your Universal Primary Care provider will discuss the most appropriate screening schedule to keep you safe.

At Universal Primary Care, we believe that preventive healthcare is the foundation for lifelong wellness. For our patients with a cervix, Pap smear screenings are an essential tool in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.

Following evidence-based guidelines from organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), we recommend that individuals begin Pap smear screenings at age 21—regardless of when sexual activity begins. Routine Pap smears before age 21 are not necessary, as cervical cancer is extremely rare in this age group and most abnormal findings resolve on their own.

Ages 21 to 29: If your Pap smear results are normal, we recommend screening every three years.

Ages 30 and Over: You can continue Pap smears every three years, or you may choose to combine a Pap smear with HPV testing every five years. Our providers will help you decide which schedule is best for you based on your health history and risk factors.

Some patients may need more frequent screening. If you have a history of abnormal Pap smears, a weakened immune system, or have received treatment for cervical cancer or precancerous conditions, please let your provider know. We will work with you to create a personalized screening plan.

We are dedicated to providing comprehensive preventive health services, including routine Pap smears for our patients. A Pap smear is a simple and important screening procedure used to collect cells from the cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus at the top of the vagina. This test plays a crucial role in helping us detect abnormal cervical cells early, which can prevent cervical cancer and support your long-term health.

During a Pap smear, you will be asked to lie comfortably on an exam table and place your feet in stirrups. One of our compassionate healthcare providers will gently insert a speculum into the vagina to provide a clear view of the cervix. Using a small brush or spatula, we collect a sample of cells from the surface of the cervix. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for careful examination.

The entire process typically takes just a few minutes and may cause mild discomfort, but it is generally not painful. Our team is committed to making you feel comfortable and informed throughout the procedure. Regular Pap smears are a key part of preventive care for women, and we encourage you to speak with your provider about when you should schedule your next screening.

The Pap Smear is performed in a supportive and comfortable environment, typically lasting just a few minutes during a routine well-woman visit. Using a speculum and a soft brush, the provider takes a small sample of cells from the cervical opening. Patients can expect the results of this crucial test—which determines if cells are normal, precancerous, or cancerous—to be relayed by Universal Primary Care Medical in a matter of weeks, along with clear direction on any necessary follow-up care, whether it is simply resuming the normal screening schedule or coordinating further diagnostic testing. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations at Brimhall Primary Care Center, Ming Primary Care Clinic, Niles Primary Care Clinic, Universal Q-Street Primary Care, and Niles Family Medicine in Bakersfield, CA. We serve patients from Bakersfield CA, Maltha CA, Kayandee CA, Panama CA, Arvin CA, Fairfax CA, Rosedale CA, and surrounding areas.