Through the implementation of systematic cervical cancer screening in the mid-20th century, the United States and other developed countries have seen death rates from cervical cancer decreased by ≥70%.The purpose of this article is to address several of the most controversial issues associated with cervical cancer screening recommendations in light of historical and evolving data. In this article, we will explore the controversies around the age at which to initiate and exit screening, human papilloma virus testing alone as a primary screening approach, and the impact of human papilloma virus vaccination on cervical cancer rates.