Do You Need Cervical Cancer Screenings If You Got the HPV Shot?

Think you can skip routine screenings if you were vaccinated against HPV? Think again.

If you've received the HPV vaccine, you've already taken a major step in protecting yourself from cervical cancer. The shot helps guard against the most common strains of the human papillomavirus that cause cervical cancer, along with some that lead to genital warts and other health problems. But even with this strong layer of protection, cervical cancer screenings are still an important part of your routine health care.

Cervical cancer usually develops slowly, often starting with small changes in the cells of the cervix long before it becomes dangerous. The goal of screening is to find these changes early so they can be treated before they turn into cancer. That's why routine cervical cancer screening is one of the most effective tools available to prevent this disease.

You may think that getting the HPV vaccine means you can skip these tests, but that's not the case. The HPV shot protects against the virus types most likely to cause cervical cancer, but it doesn't cover every possible strain. It also doesn't treat infections you may have been exposed to before being vaccinated. Because screening can detect early cell changes that the vaccine can't prevent, it remains a key part of staying healthy.

So how often do you need to be screened?

For most people with a cervix, guidelines recommend starting Pap tests at age 21. From ages 21 to 29, you typically need a Pap test every 3 years. Starting at age 30, you can continue with a Pap test every 3 years, get an HPV test every 5 years or do both tests together every 5 years. Your healthcare provider may adjust these recommendations based on your health history, past test results or risk factors.

Even if you've been vaccinated, the screening schedule does not change. Researchers continue to study whether future recommendations may shift as more vaccinated people reach screening age, but for now, routine Pap or HPV tests are still recommended.

It's also important to know that the HPV vaccine works best when given before someone is exposed to the virus, which is why it's recommended for kids and teens. But adults up to age 45 may also benefit from getting vaccinated. Even if you weren't vaccinated at a young age, the shot can still offer meaningful protection moving forward.

When screening and vaccination are used together, they drastically lower your risk of developing cervical cancer. If you're unsure when your last screening was, which test you need or whether you should consider getting an HPV shot if you didn't get one when you were younger, it's a great idea to talk to your provider. They can answer any questions you may have and can help you make the best decisions for your health.

Explore Women's Health at NIHD.

The team at Rural Health Women's Clinic is here to support your health, comfort, and well-being through every stage of life. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call us at (760) 873-2602.

Copyright 2025-2026 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: November 19, 2025 Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.