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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recently recommended important changes in cervical cytology screening practices. Revisions to these guidelines, which are not intended to impose absolute protocols for screening and treatment, largely stem from a better understanding of the natural history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. HPV transmission is very common; however, more than three quarters of women — especially those who are in their early 20s or younger — clear their HPV infections within 8 to 24 months. Cervical cancer in young women is extremely rare (1–2 cases per million women who are 15–19 years of age). Evaluations such as colposcopy and excisional procedures often are stressful, especially to youn…