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To obtain an idea of the quantitative as well as the qualitative aspects of overscreening for cervical cancer in Flanders and to formulate suggestions to reduce this overscreening. Methods: An analysis of Pap smear histories was performed in a large dataset of women for whom cytopathological results were available. Results: Analysis of Pap smear histories shows that in Flanders overscreening for cervical cancer is not at all exceptional and that it is sometimes extreme. Conclusions: Since every Pap smear performed carries the risk of adverse effects due to a false positive result, overscreening is to be avoided as much as possible, especially in these subgroups where the benefits of cervical cancer screening are marginal, i.e. in younger women. The following suggestions for reducing overscreening have been formulated: centralised medical patient records are needed; strict regulations on the frequency and age limits for To achieve the above-mentioned suggestions, the primary healthcare system in Flanders needs to be upgraded and a complete Pap smear register (implying uniform cytopathological reports) should be available.