How much does a Pap smear cost?
How much does a Pap smear cost?
$40 – $150 Pap smear cost without insurance
$0 – $50 average cost with insurance
Average Pap smear test cost
A Pap smear test costs $0 to $50 with insurance or $40 to $150 without insurance on average. This test helps doctors screen for cancer, precancerous growths, or abnormalities. Pap smear test prices depend on your insurance coverage, location, medical facility type, and additional tests or services.
| Coverage type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Without insurance / self-pay | $40 – $150 |
| With insurance | $0 – $50 |
What is a Pap smear?
A Papanicolaou smear, or Pap test, is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, to check for abnormal or precancerous changes. Early detection through Pap smears allows treatment before cancer develops and improves treatment success compared to later-stage diagnoses.
What does a Pap smear test for?
The Pap smear primarily identifies cancer and abnormal cell changes that could develop into cervical cancer if left untreated. Doctors also normally check for non-cancerous conditions like infections or inflammation at the same time.
Many OB-GYNs combine Pap smears with other services like a pelvic exam, HPV testing, or STD testing. A Pap smear with a pelvic exam or other test costs $120 to $450.
Pap smear price factors
Several factors can influence the cost of your Pap smear:
Facility type: Hospitals generally charge higher rates compared to smaller outpatient clinics, Planned Parenthood clinics, or independent gynecologists' offices.
Location: Prices and facility standards vary by state. Some states mandate the provision of infertility treatments, ensuring patients receive at least partial coverage.
First visit vs. follow-up: Getting a Pap smear during a first-time visit with an OB-GYN costs less on average than during a follow-up visit.
Next steps: If your doctor finds abnormalities in your cervical cells, they may order a colposcopy or biopsy to determine if the cells are cancerous.
Insurance coverage: The cost with insurance depends on your plan, co-pays, and whether you've met your deductible. Many facilities offer discounted cash prices for self-paying patients, which are often lower than insurance-negotiated rates due to reduced administrative costs and simpler transactions.
Government-subsidized programs
Government-funded programs, such as the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP), offer free or low-cost cervical cancer screenings for eligible women. You may be eligible if any of the following apply:
You are 21 to 64 years old.
Your income is below 250% of the federal poverty level.
Your insurance doesn’t cover screenings.
Related medical costs
A Pap smear exam costs more when combined with other types of medical exams. Depending on the reason for the Pap smear or what your doctor is trying to diagnose, they may order additional tests. The table below shows the average cost for other common procedures:
| Test type | Average cost per test or cycle (without insurance) |
|---|---|
| Blood work cost | $25 – $125 |
| Pregnancy test cost | $20 – $60 |
| STD testing cost | $30 – $400 |
| Hysterosalpingogram exam cost | $500 – $3,000 |
Pap smear FAQs
Can you get a Pap smear on your period?
You can get a Pap smear on your period, but it's generally not recommended due to potential interference with sample quality and increased discomfort. Rescheduling for a non-menstruating time may give you more accurate results and a more comfortable experience.
Do you need a Pap smear if you're not sexually active?
Yes, you may still need a Pap smear even if you’re not sexually active. While HPV, the primary cause of cervical cancer, is often transmitted through sexual contact, cervical cancer can develop due to other factors like a weakened immune system, smoking, or family history.
Experts recommend regular screenings for all women starting at age 21.
Does a Pap smear hurt?
A Pap smear should not hurt but may cause mild discomfort. During the procedure, you might feel pressure from the speculum and a slight scraping sensation on the cervix. Some women report sensations similar to menstrual cramps, but the test is quick and generally well-tolerated.
How often should you get a Pap smear?
Women should get a Pap smear every 3 to 5 years, depending on your age and medical history:
21 to 29: Every 3 years with a Pap test alone
30 to 65: Every 3 years or every 5 years with an HPV test
After 65: No more testing for low-risk individuals with consistent normal results
How long does a Pap smear take?
A Pap smear appointment normally takes between 10 to 20 minutes total, including preparation and discussion.
How long do Pap smear results take?
Pap smear results take 1 to 3 weeks to process, depending on the lab. In some cases, you may get results within a few days. Contact your healthcare provider if you haven’t received your results within the expected timeframe.
Can a Pap smear detect ovarian cancer?
A Pap smear does not reliably detect ovarian cancer because it examines only cervical cells. While rare cases have detected ovarian cancer cells during a Pap smear, this is uncommon and not a dependable method. Currently, no routine screening test exists for ovarian cancer.
Can you get a Pap smear while pregnant?
Yes, you can get a Pap smear while pregnant, and it is safe for both you and your baby. Doctors often perform this exam during early prenatal visits to screen for cervical cancer or abnormalities.
Is it normal to bleed after a Pap smear?
Yes, light bleeding or spotting after a Pap smear is normal, especially during pregnancy, due to cervical sensitivity and minor irritation during the procedure. Spotting normally resolves within a day or two. However, heavy bleeding or prolonged spotting may indicate an underlying issue, so contact your healthcare provider in such cases.
Questions to ask your doctor
Here are some questions to ask your OB-GYN about the Pap smear and related issues:
What is the purpose of the Pap smear, and what does it test for?
How should I prepare for the test? Are there any activities or products I need to avoid?
Is it safe to have the test during my menstrual period?
Will the procedure be painful or uncomfortable?
Can you explain each step of the procedure beforehand?
Should I bring someone with me for support?
What happens if the results are abnormal?
How often should I have a Pap smear based on my health history?
Will you also screen for HPV or other infections?
Are there risks or limitations associated with the Pap smear?
The content of this site is for educational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or services. The information provided should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of health problems. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional for advice about any medical concerns.