Overview
The cervix is a body part that connects the uterus (womb) to the vagina (genital opening). Cervical cancer is cancer in the cervix.
Regular screening is an essential defense against cervical cancer. Cervical cancer screening can detect early cell changes on the cervix caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. These changes seldom cause any symptoms, but can progress to cancer if not found and treated. Screening is the only way to detect changes that might lead to cancer (Ontario Ministry of Health).
Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable with the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, regular testing with the Pap test, and appropriate and timely follow-up of abnormal results. There is no cost for Pap tests as they are covered by OHIP.
When to Get Screened
Currently, the Ontario Cervical Screening Program recommends that anyone with a cervix (women, transmasculine and non-binary people) who is or ever has been sexually active have a Pap test every 3 years starting at age 25.
You can stop regular screening with Pap tests at the age of 70 if you have had 3 or more normal tests in the previous 10 years.
Where to Get Screened
The cervical cancer screening program runs out of our clinic. Appointments for your Pap testing can be made through our Pap Clinic or with your primary care provider.
Pap test results are usually available after 7-10 days but may take as long as three weeks. If your test results are abnormal we will contact you to make an appointment with your primary care provider.
HPV Vaccine
HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus and is a sexually transmitted virus. Some types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer. HPV infections cause cell changes in the cervix that may turn into cancer before you feel any symptoms.
Getting the HPV vaccine helps protect against cervical cancer. Getting the vaccine before becoming sexually active provides the greatest protection. The vaccine may also protect against future HPV infections if you are already sexually active, as the vaccine protects against 9 different types of HPV.
Ontario students in Grade 7 can get the vaccine for free through a school-based HPV vaccination program. Students have until the end of grade 12 to complete their HPV immunization series, should they have missed any doses of the HPV vaccine in grade 7.
The HPV vaccine is available outside of the school program for a cost. Some private health plans cover the cost of the vaccine.
Talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner to see if the HPV vaccine is right for you.
Online resources
Edited September 2024
Cervical Cancer Screening in Ontario.pdf