Preventing cervical cancer

There are two ways to prevent cervical cancer - the first is to prevent infections with HPV, the second is to get regular Pap smears that will detect pre-cancerous conditions and HPV.

Girls less than 18 years of age should avoid sexual activity or always use condoms.

If a woman sees warts on her partner's genitals, she should avoid intercourse.

To further reduce the risk of cervical cancer, women should limit the number of their sexual partners.

Women should avoid sexually promiscuous partners.

Condoms may help prevent the transmission of HPV (human papilloma virus) – the virus responsible for cervical cancer.

Annual pelvic examinations, including a pap smear, should begin when a woman becomes sexually active, or by the age of 20 in a non-sexually active woman.

All abnormal findings in pelvic examinations should be followed up with colposcopy and biopsy.

Studies show that smoking can actually speed up the process of cervical damage caused by HPV. Quitting now greatly reduces your risk of several types of cancer, including cervical cancer.

Having multiple sexual partners increases your risk of being infected with HPV and other sexually transmitted diseases. So, avoid having multiple sexual relationships.