Do You Need a Pap Smear If You’ve Never Had Sex?

Q: Do You Need a Pap Smear If You’ve Never Had Sex?

Hello： Cervical cancer is caused by long-term changes following infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). <br>Anyone who has had sexual intercourse may be at risk of contracting this virus, so it is recommended to undergo a Pap smear examination. <br>Hsinchu City Hospital, D

Pap smear examination

Hello: My friend was sexually abused as a child, and as an adult, she has not married and has not engaged in sexual intercourse.
Does she need to have a Pap smear?

Wu Yan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/05/15

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Cervical cancer is caused by long-term changes following infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Anyone who has had sexual intercourse may be at risk of contracting this virus, so it is recommended to undergo a Pap smear examination.
Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2007/05/15

More Info

The question of whether a Pap smear is necessary for someone who has never had sexual intercourse is an important one, particularly in the context of women's health. The Pap smear, or Pap test, is a screening procedure for cervical cancer and is typically recommended for women starting at age 21, regardless of their sexual history. This recommendation is based on the understanding that cervical cancer can develop due to the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, not just through penetrative sexual intercourse.

In your friend's case, even though she has never had sexual intercourse, it is still advisable for her to undergo regular Pap smears starting at age 21. The rationale behind this is that HPV can be contracted through other forms of sexual activity, including oral sex and genital touching. Additionally, the Pap smear can help detect precancerous changes in the cervical cells, which can be treated before they develop into cancer.

Furthermore, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women continue to have Pap smears every three years until they reach the age of 29. From ages 30 to 65, women may choose to have Pap smears every three years or opt for a Pap smear combined with HPV testing every five years, depending on their health history and risk factors.

It's also important to consider that women who have experienced sexual assault or trauma may have specific emotional and psychological needs when it comes to gynecological examinations. It may be beneficial for your friend to seek a healthcare provider who is sensitive to her history and can provide a supportive environment during the examination process.

In summary, regardless of sexual history, it is recommended that women begin Pap smear screenings at age 21. This proactive approach is crucial for early detection of cervical cancer and maintaining overall reproductive health. If your friend has concerns or fears about the procedure, it may be helpful for her to discuss these with a healthcare professional who can provide reassurance and support.

Similar Q&A

Do You Need a Pap Smear If You Haven't Had Intercourse?

Hello doctor, my girlfriend is a Christian, so we cannot engage in premarital sexual intercourse. I have only rubbed my genitalia against her external genitalia and used my fingers for penetration. Do we need to have a Pap smear?

Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Even without sexual intercourse, a Pap smear can still be performed (using alternative methods). Please visit the gynecology outpatient clinic.

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Hello: 1. Not necessary 2. It will affect wishing you peace and health.

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1. If the penis only rubs against the vaginal opening and there has been no penetration (and both partners are each other's only sexual partners with no previous sexual experiences), is it still necessary to have regular Pap smears? 2. If there is only genital rubbing, and ...

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1. If there has been no vaginal penetration, a Pap smear is not necessary. 2. Although the likelihood of pregnancy is very low, there is still a possibility. 3. Some men ejaculate immediately upon vaginal contact, which is known as premature ejaculation.

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