AZ Blue Best Life Plus (HMO): Cervical and Vaginal Cancer Screening (Pap Smear and Pelvic Exam)

Precancerous to cancerous conditions of the cervix and vagina are not uncommon and many women are at high risk without realizing it. It only takes a few minutes to determine the presence of abnormalities.  While the risk for cervical or vaginal cancer actually decreases as we age (50 years and older), other gynecological abnormalities or complications can develop that are important to identify and address.

All women agree that gynecological exams are generally unpleasant and uncomfortable, though the few minutes they take can reduce the risk for gynecological issues, including cancer.  (Other gynecological issues include infections, vaginal dryness, discomfort or pain with intercourse, uterine prolapse, and problems with the urinary system.) Women should not wait until there are symptoms such as pain or discharge before getting an exam.

The exam involves an external visual exam of the vulva, an internal visual exam using a speculum, a Pap test (a.k.a. Pap smear, which is a swab sample of the cervix), and a physical exam of the palpable (able to feel) pelvic organs, abdomen, and pelvis.  Palpation is performed both internally and externally.  While it has decreased in use over the last several years, many providers will also check the rectum for tone, tenderness, growths, or other irregularities (involves inserting a finger into the anus).

For those women at high risk of cervical or vaginal cancer, or are of childbearing age and have had an abnormal Pap test within the past 3 years, one screening every 12 months is covered.

Tests for human papillomavirus (HPV), as part of a Pap test, are also covered once every 5 years if aged between 35-65 years without HPV symptoms.