Annual Pap smears may no longer be necessary, according to newly released guidelines for cervical cancer screenings.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, most women should only get tested once every three to five years because the majority of precancerous cervical cells take years to develop into cancer.

The college says its updated guidelines match other medical group recommendations, including the American Cancer Society. It stresses that an annual doctor's visit is still critical for women's health.