Cervical cancer rarely announces itself in its beginning stages. It begins quietly, in the background, with small changes that don't hurt and don't show — until one day, they do. Thanks to preventive screenings, cervical cancer can be caught early.
The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States, with an estimated 43 million currently infected. HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact, not through body fluids, and a person can have it for years without knowing it, as there are often no signs or symptom associated with infection.
Most HPV infections resolve on their own. However, there are certain high-risk types of HPV that can lead to cancers later in life, such as those of the cervix, vagina, anus, penis, and even some head and neck cancers. For women, the most common HPV-related disease is cervical cancer — responsible for 97% of cervical cancers.
This is why cervical cancer screenings are important. A Pap test is used to detect abnormal cells on the cervix, and an HPV test looks for signs of HPV infection on the cervix. In women aged 25 or older, these tests are often done together.
While HPV is common, there are a lot of myths about the virus and its risks. Here are some common myths about HPV and what you can do to help prevent cervical cancer.
Myth #1: "Only promiscuous people get HPV."
Fact: HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with nearly 13 million new infections each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). You can contract it even if you've only had one partner.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women beginning at age 25 be screened for HPV every five years, even those who have been vaccinated against the virus.
The CDC highly recommends children receive the HPV vaccine beginning at age 9 to protect against infections that can cause certain cancers later in life. The vaccine is most effective when administered during preteen years, as the immune system responds most robustly at that age.
Myth #2: "I'm vaccinated for HPV so I don't need Pap tests anymore."
Fact: The HPV vaccine protects against the most dangerous strains, but not all of them. Regular Pap and/or HPV tests are still essential, even if you've been vaccinated. Talk to your doctor about how often you should be tested.
Myth #3: "I feel fine, so I don't need a screening."
Fact: Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. That's why sticking to the recommended schedule of Pap and HPV screenings is so important, as these tests are designed to detect precancerous changes before you feel anything. Once you start experiencing symptoms, like abnormal vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex, vaginal discharge, problems with urination or bowel movements, the cancer has advanced to more serious stages.
Myth #4: "If I've gone through menopause, I don't need to be screened."
Fact: Women over 50 are still at risk. Guidelines generally recommend screening until age 65 and sometimes longer, depending on your medical history.
Myth #5: "Pap smears and HPV tests are painful."
Fact: These tests are done by inserting a speculum into the vagina and then a small brush is used to take samples of cervical cells. It's common to feel some pressure from the speculum and a brief discomfort from the collection of cells, but it shouldn't be painful. Thankfully, there are ways to help make the test more comfortable — from taking an over-the-counter pain medication ahead of your appointment, to urinating before the exam to help relive the sensation of pressure, to asking that your provider use a smaller speculum. It's important that you speak to your provider about your concerns so that they can make you as comfortable as possible.
Myth #6: "I don't need the HPV vaccine after a certain age."
Fact: The Centers for Disease Control recommends an HPV vaccine for everyone up to age 26. Even adults to 45 may still benefit depending on risk factors. Talk to your health care provider about whether or not you meet the criteria for vaccination against HPV.
HPV and Cervical Cancer Screenings
HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that’s responsible for 97% of cervical cancers, which often have no symptoms in the early stages. That's why screening for early detection is vital — talk to your provider about the HPV vaccine and when and how often you should be screened for cervical cancer.
