HPV causes most cervical cancers, but vaccination and modern screening can prevent them. Learn how testing, self-sampling, and vaccination work together to stop cancer before it starts.
Read MoreWhen we talk about cervical cancer, a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the cervix, often caused by long-term infection with certain strains of the human papillomavirus. Also known as neck of the womb cancer, it’s one of the most preventable cancers when caught early through simple tests. Most cases don’t show symptoms until they’re advanced—which is why screening isn’t optional, it’s life-saving.
Behind every case of cervical cancer is usually a persistent HPV infection, a common virus spread through skin-to-skin contact, with over 100 types, but only a few high-risk strains like HPV 16 and 18 linked to cancer. The good news? The HPV vaccine, a safe, effective shot given in early teens that protects against the cancer-causing strains. can stop 90% of these cases before they start. And for those who missed the vaccine, regular Pap smear, a quick, painless test that collects cells from the cervix to check for abnormal changes. can catch those changes years before cancer develops. Many women don’t realize you don’t need symptoms to need this test—even if you feel fine.
Screening guidelines vary, but most women should start Pap smears at 21 and get them every three years. After 30, combining a Pap smear with an HPV test lets you stretch screenings to every five years if results are normal. Skipping these tests because you’re embarrassed, busy, or think you’re not at risk is the biggest mistake people make. Cervical cancer doesn’t care about your schedule—it grows silently.
What you’ll find in the articles below aren’t just generic overviews. You’ll see real advice on how to talk to your doctor about screening, what to do if your results come back abnormal, how the HPV vaccine works for adults, and why some women still get cervical cancer even after getting vaccinated. There’s also info on how certain medications, immune conditions, and even smoking can raise your risk. This isn’t theory—it’s what people actually need to know to protect themselves.
HPV causes most cervical cancers, but vaccination and modern screening can prevent them. Learn how testing, self-sampling, and vaccination work together to stop cancer before it starts.
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