Wellness

[tends2dogs]

I am going in next week for my yearly check up.  I get a thermogram, breast exam, and usually a pap and pelvic along with my bloodwork. 

I am wondering if there is an age when you no longer need a pap test.  I haven't had a hysterectomy.  I have never had an abnormal pap test.

I know I will ask these questions at my appointment, but I am curious what advice you ladies have been given by your healthcare providers.

Anyone care to share?

UPDATE:  I had my appointment today.  This was the recommendation of the PA that I see:  Pap test every two to three years if you've had several normal paps in a row.  If a woman isn't sexually active, every 3 to 5 years.  All woman should have a pelvic exam every year.  

I go to a preventive clinic and have a thermogram and breast exam every year also.

According to what has been posted here, there are a whole lot of opinions on this subject.  I guess you have to trust your healthcare provider, ask for more testing,  or go someplace else.

I've enjoyed reading all the posts and I appreciate all of you for taking the time.

[cherry]

I haven't had them for a while. I don't know how long it's been

[goldensrbest]

No stopped years ago.

[Shelbelle]

Every other year, Medicare will pay for it every other year. 

[KingstonsMom]

@tends2dogs 

My Dr. said that the recommendation now was no more Pap smears after age 65, provided that you'd never had an abnormal pap smear.

He said that studies showed there was a greater risk of infection after 65, which is when I had my last one.

[blackhole99]

My HMO recommends the pap test every 3 years for women over 65 who have not had suspicious pap smear results in the past. If you want it done yearly though, they will do it and insurance pays for it. I am due for one in March 2020.

[Mom2Dogs]

I am 64 this year and my NP told me that after 60ish and no issues with 2 consecutive pap tests, I could be done...I have never had a bad report so I felt comfortable stopping that test....I will be insterested to hear what your doctor tells you.

[ALRATIBA]

Last one was probably 25 years ago.  

Years ago, my GP told me to avoid doctors .... I took her advice. 

I only go when I'm sick .... or my for my annual hearing exam, bi-annual eye exam, or semi-annual dentist.

[Shelbelle]

My feeling is that if Medicare pays for it every 2 years, then that must be the standard, since that is what they go by, works for me. If they are paying for it, I am going to do it, My doc says if insurance is paying, she is going to do it. 

[tends2dogs]

Thank you, ladies.  I appreciate you taking the time to comment.  I will report back after my appointment next week.  I am hoping it is a big "NO MORE"    I have done my time in the stirrups for a lifetime LOL.