Final answer:
The normal schedule for cervical cancer screening involves routine Pap smears, starting at age 21 for sexually active individuals, and repeating every three years until age 50, and then every five years until age 65. Screening may be discontinued if the last three Pap smears were normal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The normal schedule for cervical cancer screening involves routine Pap smears. The recommended age to start receiving Pap smears is 21, for sexually active individuals. General guidelines suggest repeating Pap smears every three years until age 50, and then every five years until age 65. Screening may be discontinued after age 65 if the last three Pap smears were normal. Individuals with a history of abnormal Pap smears or cancer may need more frequent screening. Pap smears can be safely done during pregnancy and resumed about three months after childbirth. It is better to avoid Pap smears during menstruation.