Which women need TCT examination? Gynecologists highlight: these groups should not be lazy
I. Women aged 21 and above: It's time to schedule a TCT examination!
Many sisters think "I'm still young, gynecological issues are far from me," but the HPV virus doesn't discriminate by age! According to medical guidelines,Women aged 21 and above who are sexually activeYou should start your first TCT screening now—it's like a "routine physical exam" for the cervix, which can detect early cellular abnormalities in a timely manner. Even if you have only had one sexual encounter, as long as you are 21 years old or older, it is recommended to proactively undergo screening. After all, early cervical lesions often have no obvious symptoms. If you wait until symptoms like abdominal pain or bleeding appear before getting checked, it might already be too late.

II. High-Risk Behavior Groups: Screening Frequency Should Be "Increased"
If any of the following conditions apply, you are considered a "key focus individual" for cervical health and should increase the frequency of screenings appropriately in addition to routine checks:
Early sexual activity (under 18 years old) and having multiple sexual partners
Long-term smoking (including secondhand smoke), staying up late and excessive alcohol consumption, poor immunity.
Previous infection with HPV, especially high-risk types 16 and 18
History of miscarriage, multiple deliveries, and cervical injury.
Sisters in this category are advised to undergo screening every 1-2 years, as the higher the risk, the greater the significance of early detection. Do not delay with a "gambler's mentality"!
III. Women Aged 30 and Above: TCT+HPV "Combined Screening" Is More Reliable
After age 30, the risk of cervical lesions in women slightly increases, and a simple TCT test may not be comprehensive enough. Doctors typically recommendWomen aged 30-65Undergoing "TCT+HPV Co-testing": TCT examines whether cells show abnormalities, while HPV checks for viral infection. The combined accuracy rate exceeds 90%. If screening results are normal for three consecutive years, subsequent screenings can be extended to once every three years. However, do not discontinue screening altogether. Only after age 65 with no abnormalities can one be considered "graduated."

Four, When These Signals Appear: Don't Wait for Regular Screening, Get Checked Immediately!
Whether you have reached the screening age or not, be alert to the following symptoms and schedule an examination promptly:
Irregular bleeding outside of menstrual periods, slight bleeding after intercourse.
Abnormal vaginal discharge, such as increased volume, yellow or green color, blood streaks, or unusual odor.
Lower abdominal distension and soreness in the lower back persisting for more than 1 month.
These may be warning signals from the cervix, and early detection and treatment are essential to prevent minor issues from developing into major problems.
Final reminder: TCT examination is not that scary!
Many women fear the pain and embarrassment of the examination, but the process actually takes only 5 minutes. The doctor gently brushes cervical cells with a sampler, and the discomfort is similar to that of a gynecological internal exam, which is entirely tolerable. Moreover, fasting is not required before screening; it is only necessary to avoid the menstrual period, abstain from sexual intercourse 24 hours before the exam, and refrain from vaginal douching.
Cervical health is the first line of defense for women's health, and the TCT test serves as the radar guarding this defense line. Do not assume that no symptoms mean no issues, and do not delay screening due to inconvenience. Early detection and early intervention are key to ensuring peace of mind. Share this with the women around you and prioritize cervical screening together