Prevention of cervical cancer: HPV vaccine and screening
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. How HPV causes it, who should get the HPV vaccine, and when to have a Pap smear or HPV test.
By the Healtree Hospital clinical team.
Cervical cancer is largely preventable. Almost all cases are caused by long-lasting infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Two steps prevent most cases: the HPV vaccine, ideally at 9 to 14 years of age, and regular screening with a Pap smear or HPV test from age 25 or 30, which finds early changes before they become cancer.
What is cervical cancer?
The cervix is the lower part of the womb that opens into the vagina. Cervical cancer develops slowly, usually over 10 to 15 years, starting as abnormal (pre-cancerous) changes in the cells. That long window is why screening works so well: changes can be found and treated before cancer develops.
Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in India, yet it is among the most preventable.
The role of HPV
HPV is a very common virus passed on through intimate skin contact. Most people are infected at some point and clear it naturally within two years. In a small number, high-risk types, especially HPV 16 and 18, persist and gradually change the cervical cells.
The HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against the types that cause most cervical cancers. It works best when given before any exposure to the virus, so it is recommended for girls aged 9 to 14, when two doses are enough. Older girls and young women can still be vaccinated, usually with three doses. Ask your paediatrician or gynaecologist which schedule suits you.
Vaccinated women still need screening, because the vaccine does not cover every high-risk type.
Screening: Pap smear and HPV test
A Pap smear looks for abnormal cells in a small sample from the cervix. An HPV test checks the same sample for high-risk HPV. Both are quick outpatient tests done during a gynaecology visit.
- Start screening from age 25 to 30, as advised by your gynaecologist
- Repeat every 3 years with a Pap smear, or every 5 years with an HPV test, if results are normal
- Continue up to about age 65 if previous results have been normal
- Follow-up tests or treatment are arranged if a result is abnormal
Other ways to lower your risk
- Do not smoke: smoking makes it harder for the body to clear HPV
- Use barrier protection
- Keep up regular screening even if you feel well
Symptoms that need a check-up
Early cervical changes cause no symptoms. See a gynaecologist if you notice bleeding between periods, after intercourse or after menopause, unusual discharge, or pelvic pain.
See a specialist in Neelankarai, ECR
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Our Obstetrics & Gynaecology team at Healtree Multi-Speciality Centre & Hospital can assess your situation. The hospital is open 24 hours.
Specialists: Dr. R. Suganya, Dr. Hemalatha, Dr. Divya Subramani
Frequently asked questions
- At what age should girls get the HPV vaccine?
- Ideally between 9 and 14 years, when two doses are enough. Older girls and young women can still be vaccinated, usually with three doses.
- How often should I have a Pap smear?
- Typically every 3 years from age 25 to 30 if results are normal, or every 5 years if you have an HPV test. Your gynaecologist will advise the right interval for you.
- Do I still need screening if I have had the HPV vaccine?
- Yes. The vaccine prevents most but not all cervical cancers, so regular screening is still recommended.
- Is a Pap smear painful?
- It may feel slightly uncomfortable for a moment but is not usually painful. It takes only a few minutes.
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