Gynecological care includes regular exams and tests. The type and timing of tests depend on age and health.
Pelvic Examination
A pelvic exam allows a healthcare provider to check the health of the pelvic organs. The provider examines the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries. The goal is to look for any unusual changes, masses or growths.
Pap Smear
A Pap test checks for cervical cancer. During the test, the provider gently takes a swab of the tissue inside the cervix. The cells are checked for signs of cancer. Testing for human papillomavirus (HPV) is often done at the same time.
Up to 15 percent of cervical cancers occur in women over the age of 65. However, cervical cancer is rare in older women who have had routine Pap tests with normal results.
Some women do not need Pap tests after age 65:
- Women with normal Pap tests every 3 to 5 years may stop after age 65.
- Women who had a hysterectomy for reasons other than cancer.
Women who have never had a Pap test should still be screened, even after age 65. (Also see Prevention.)
Mammogram
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to check for breast cancer.
- Women ages 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year
- Women ages 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms.
- Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.
A woman needs to check with her healthcare provider to discuss the right cancer screening approach for her.
Many women have an abnormal mammogram at some point. This does not always mean cancer. Your provider might recommend another mammogram to look more closely at the area, or may recommend an ultrasound of the breast. A biopsy might be needed to see if the abnormal cells are cancer or are benign (not harmful).
Monthly breast self-exams to check for unusual lumps or changes in the breast are no longer recommended.
Last Updated May 2026