Cervical Screenings

Are Cervical Cancer Screenings Covered?

TRICARE covers cervical cancer screenings, which include:

• Pap tests for women aged 21 and older
• HPV tests for women aged 30 and older when done with a Pap test

What are the Signs of Cervical Cancer?

In the early stages, there may be no symptoms. Later, symptoms can include irregular or heavy bleeding.

Am I at Risk?

Risk factors for cervical cancer include:

• HPV infection
• Smoking
• Weakened immune system
• Low diet in fruits and vegetables
• Chlamydia infection
• Being overweight
• Use of birth control pills long-term
• Multiple full-term pregnancies
• Young age during first pregnancy

When Should I Get Screened?

The American Cancer Society recommends starting cervical cancer screening at age 25. Women aged 25 to 65 should have an HPV test every five years or a Pap test every three years.