Despite being one of the most preventable types of cancer, cervical cancer remains a major health concern. The best way to reduce your risk is early detection through regular screenings; this way you can find any potential issues before they progress.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer forms in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. This type of cancer is most commonly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. Many HPV infections will not lead to cancer, but certain high-risk strains can cause changes in cervical cells that, if left untreated, may develop into cancer over time.
Cervical cancer screenings
According to the CDC,1 both the HPV test and the Pap test can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early.
- The HPV test looks for the virus (human papillomavirus) that can cause cell changes on the cervix.
- The Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for precancers – cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately.
Both tests can be done at your nearest health clinic. During the Pap test, your provider will use a plastic or metal instrument, called a speculum, to look inside your vagina.
HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine provides safe, effective and lasting protection against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cancer.4 It is recommended that children get vaccinated before they ever have contact with the virus.
Recommendations
The HPV vaccine can be given starting at age 9, but it is more commonly given to children between 11 to 12 years old. If vaccination started before age 15, only two doses are needed, given 6 to 12 months apart.
When should I get screened for cervical cancer?
Guidelines for cervical cancer screenings may vary based on your individual health history and circumstances, but the CDC recommends the following:
If you’re 21 to 29 years old: You should start getting Pap tests at age 21 and every three years after. HPV testing is not usually recommended in this age group unless your Pap test results are abnormal.
If you’re 30 to 65 years old: Talk to your provider about which testing option is right for you:
- An HPV test only. This is called primary HPV testing. If your result is normal, your provider may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
- An HPV test and a Pap test. This is called co-testing. If both of your results are normal, your provider may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
- A Pap test only. If your result is normal, your provider may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.
If you’re older than 65: Your provider may tell you that you don’t need to be screened anymore if:
- You have had at least three Pap tests or two HPV tests in the past 10 years, and the test results were normal or negative, and
- You have not had a cervical precancer in the past, or
- You have had your cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous conditions, like fibroids.
What should I expect during cervical cancer screening?
Cervical cancer screening tests are usually done during a pelvic exam, which takes only a few minutes. During the exam, you lie on your back on an exam table, bend your knees and put your feet into supports at the end of the table. The health care provider uses a speculum to gently open your vagina to see the cervix. A soft, narrow brush or tiny spatula is used to collect a small sample of cells from your cervix.2
Conclusion
Cervical cancer can be prevented through regular screening tests and by getting the HPV vaccine. When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life. Talk to your health care provider to find out what screening tests are right for you.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, December 11). Screening for Cervical Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/cervical-cancer/screening/index.html
American Cancer Society. (2023). Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines. https://www.cancer.org
National Cancer Institute. (2023). Pap Test and HPV Test. https://www.cancer.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, December 11) Reducing Risk for Cervical Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/cervical-cancer/prevention/index.html
