Cervical Cancer & HPV

Protecting Yourself Against
Cervical Cancer

One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself against cervical cancer is to get routine pap tests, and HPV tests when recommended. There may also be things you can do to minimize your risk of getting cervical cancer, such as getting the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine if you are between the ages of 9 and 26.

Getting regular pap tests

The pap test is the most successful cervical cancer screening program. And remember, over 90% of pap test results come back as normal. In the event that your pap test comes back as abnormal, your doctor will recommend appropriate follow-up and possible treatment if necessary.

HPV test when recommended

If your pap test comes back as inconclusive or slightly abnormal then your doctor may recommend an HPV test. Likewise if you are age 30 or older an HPV test may be recommended with your pap test.

Continuing your annual exam

Your annual exam plays an important role in your cervical as well as your overall health. During your annual exam, your doctor checks many things, including your blood pressure, breasts, vagina, and other pelvic organs. Your doctor may also recommend testing for sexually transmitted diseases in addition to routine pap testing.

Learn about HPV and cervical cancer risk

Learn about other cervical cancer risk factors

The HPV vaccine

The HPV vaccine can be given to girls and women between the ages of 9 and 26, preferably who are not sexually active or have not been exposed to HPV. The vaccine protects against the two most common — but not all — of the "high-risk" HPV types. Even with the vaccine, however, it is critical to continue having regular pap tests.¹ Used together, the vaccine along with regular pap tests will continue to make cervical cancer one of the most preventable types of cancer.