Cervical Health After Menopause: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

Menopause brings many changes to a woman’s body—including the cervix. While most of us are used to thinking about Pap smears and HPV screenings during our reproductive years, cervical health remains just as important after menopause. But what’s considered normal after menopause, and when should you be concerned?

Here’s what you need to know about caring for your cervical health in your postmenopausal years.

Normal Changes to the Cervix After Menopause

As estrogen levels decline, the cervix—and the tissues surrounding it—undergo natural changes. Common and generally normal changes include:

• Thinning of vaginal and cervical tissues: This can lead to dryness, fragility, and a condition known as vaginal atrophy.
  
• Shortening or narrowing of the vaginal canal: This may make pelvic exams more uncomfortable but is not usually a cause for concern.
  
• Decreased cervical mucus: You may notice less discharge or lubrication, which is a normal part of aging.
  

These changes are part of the body’s transition and can be managed effectively with personalized treatment plans, including non-hormonal or hormonal therapies.

What’s Not Normal—and When to See a Provider

While some symptoms are expected, others warrant medical evaluation:

• Postmenopausal bleeding: Any bleeding after menopause, even light spotting, should always be checked. It could be due to thinning tissues—but it could also signal cervical polyps, uterine issues, or even cancer.
  
• Unusual discharge: New or persistent discharge that has an odor or is yellow/green in color may point to an infection or another underlying issue.
  
• Pain during intercourse or pelvic exams: While discomfort can be due to dryness, persistent or severe pain should be discussed with your provider.
  
• Abnormal Pap smear results: Even after menopause, women should follow cervical cancer screening guidelines, especially if they have risk factors like a history of HPV.
  

Should You Still Get Pap Smears After Menopause?

Yes—at least for a time. Screening guidelines typically recommend continuing Pap smears until age 65, but this can vary depending on your health history. If you’ve had abnormal Pap results in the past or have other risk factors, screenings may continue longer. Our team will tailor your screening schedule to your individual needs.

How We Can Help

At Menopause Solutions, we’re here to guide you through this phase of life with compassion and expertise. Dr. Elaine Eustis and Dr. Rhonda Leach provide comprehensive gynecologic care, including:

• Cervical cancer screening
  
• Evaluation of postmenopausal bleeding
  
• Vaginal health solutions (including bioidentical hormone therapy)
  
• Treatment of infections or abnormal Pap results
  
  

Concerned About a Symptom? Let's Talk.

Your body is still talking to you after menopause—you just need a provider who listens. If you’re experiencing bleeding, discomfort, or changes you’re unsure about, don’t wait.

Call Menopause Solutions at 843-891-6119 or email info@menopausesolutions.org to schedule an appointment.
Visit us at:
721 Long Point Road, Suite 407
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Let’s work together to protect your health and peace of mind—every step of the way.