What should be offered to a sexually active 23-year-old woman who is due for a Papanicolaou test?

Offering a Papanicolaou test, commonly referred to as a Pap test, to a sexually active 23-year-old woman is appropriate because this screening is crucial for detecting abnormal cervical cells that could lead to cervical cancer. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women begin screening for cervical cancer at age 21, regardless of sexual activity. The Pap test should be performed every three years for women aged 21 to 29. Since the question specifies that the woman is due for this test, it highlights the importance of regular screening.

The other options do not align with the immediate need for cervical cancer screening. Mammography is generally recommended for women starting at age 40, so it is not appropriate for a 23-year-old. The meningococcal vaccine is important for certain populations, particularly those in close living quarters or high-risk settings, but it is not specific to cervical cancer screening needs. An ovarian ultrasound is not routinely recommended for ovarian cancer screening, especially in someone who does not have risk factors for ovarian cancer. Thus, the focus on the Pap test is the most relevant and critical for this individual's health care at this age.