HPV and Cervical cancer: Links, Tests and Vaccination.

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

HPV Infection is the most common STI. HPV or Human papillomavirus are a very common group of viruses that can cause sexually transmitted infections. Usually HPV does not cause any problems in most people, but certain types can cause genital warts or cancer. Many people don’t even get the symptoms. HPV and Cervical cancer are related because certain types of HPV can lead to cervical cancer.

How is HPV spread?

The HPV virus can be spread mainly by direct skin-to-skin contact during any kind of sexual activity like vaginal, oral, or anal sex. HPV doesn’t spread through body fluids and blood. Sexual intercourse is not necessary for the spread of the virus, as it can spread through direct skin to skin contact of the genital regions. 

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Cervical cancer is the cancer of the cervix, a part of the female reproductive system that connects the upper part of the uterus to the vagina. Cancer begins when the mutated cells in the body begin to multiply uncontrollably. The normal cells of the cervix undergo certain changes and become pre cancerous cells. Although cervical cancers start from the pre-cancers, only few of the women with pre-cancers of the cervix will develop cancer. For most of the women, pre-cancerous cells don't cause any issue and go away without any treatment. But, in some women pre-cancers turn into true cancers. 

You DO NOT get HPV from:

• Sitting on toilet seats
• holding hands
• Hugging 
• Swimming pools 
• Sharing food

HPV test 

The high-risk HPV types can be found by regular HPV screening tests. These high risk HPV types can cause cervical cancers and during a screening test doctors look for the pieces of their DNA in cervical cells. It is important to go for regular screening tests and follow up with the doctor to prevent cervical cancer.

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HPV vaccination 

Yes, a HPV vaccine can help to prevent infections by some types of HPV. HPV vaccines can be given starting at age 9 years to the preteens and adolescents to prevent cervical cancer. One should always take the HPV vaccine under the guidance of a doctor.