DEAR DR. GOTT: I’m a 49-year-old female. I have given birth to three children ages 19 to 24. There is no known history of ovarian or breast cancer in my family. My brother and I both had our thyroid glands removed due to cancerous tumors.

For the last 25 years, I have had annual PAP smears and vaginal/anal exams, with great results. Last month I went to my internist for an annual physical. This was the fourth year I have seen him. He’s done my gynecological exams and PAPs. This year he said that regulations have changed and because I have had three successive normal PAPs, I do not need one for three more years. I questioned whether this was due to new research or new regulations. He said “new regulations.” I told him I wanted one anyway. My insurance will pay, and I’m not concerned about the cost if the procedure isn’t covered. I am concerned about cancer.
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