Women should begin screening at age 21 regardless of risk factors. Certain risk factors may increase your likelihood of developing cervical cancer.

Take our assessment to see if you meet the criteria for cervical cancer screening.*  Then, consult your doctor about next steps. 

What are the risk factors for cervical cancer?

The primary risk factor for cervical cancer is HPV infection.

Additional risk factors include:

• Having first sexual intercourse at an early age
• Having many sexual partners
• Giving birth to three or more children
• Smoking cigarettes
• Using oral contraceptives long-term
• Being infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS

Women without HPV infection or any of these other risk factors are unlikely to develop cervical cancer.

*Always check with your insurance provider before any screening or test to determine coverage.