Cervical Health: Key Facts Every Woman Should Know About HPV

Introduction:

Many women aren’t aware of how important cervical health is. Did you know that HPV is a major cause of cervical issues? Want to know how it affects you and how to stay protected? Read on to learn more.

Cervical health

The cervix is one of the important organs in the reproductive system that connects the vagina to the uterus, playing a major role in fertility, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and childbirth. Globally, cervical cancer is the 4th most common cancer in females.

What is HPV and how it spreads

Cervical cancer is mainly caused by the persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common viral infection that affects the mucous membranes and skin, which is primarily transmitted through sexual contact.

There are more than 100 types of HPV, where some types cause skin growths called warts, and some types cause infections and cancers (especially cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers). 

About 30 HPV strains can affect the genitals, including the penis, cervix, vagina, vulva, and scrotum, as well as the rectum and anus. HPV infections are often spread through sex or skin-to-skin contact.

Vaccines can help protect against the strains of HPV that are more likely to cause cervical cancer or genital warts. 

But HPV is so common that most sexually active people who aren’t vaccinated against HPV will become infected at some point in their lives. Hence, studies recommend that every woman should screen for cervical cancer as part of routine reproductive health. Usually, vaccination, early detection, and treatment of precancerous cells can prevent HPV.

Cervical Cancer risks

Several risk factors raise the chances of developing cervical cancer, including:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Smoking
• Sexual history
• Early sexual activity
• Chlamydia infection
• Use of birth control pills
• Multiple sexual partners
• Weak immune system
• Long-term use of birth control pills
• Having multiple full-term pregnancies

Pap smear and HPV tests

PAP smear and HPV test are both used for cervical cancer screening, but they detect different things. A PAP smear checks for abnormal cell changes in the cervix, while an HPV test looks for the human papillomavirus. Sometimes, both tests are done together, which is called co-testing.

What is a PAP Smear?

PAP test: This test is a lifesaving screening tool that is performed to check whether cervical cells are normal or abnormal cells that are cancerous or have the potential to become cancerous, and also to detect certain infections.

What is the HPV test?

An HPV test screens for the human papillomavirus in samples from the body, which is done during the PAP or after the PAP. This test doesn’t show cancer; instead, it shows HPV (the virus that causes cervical cancer). The doctor suggests this test when the PAP results are not clear, or if you are 30 or older, you had atypical cervical cancer screening results in the past.

HPV vaccines and eligibility

The HPV vaccine is crucial for every growing girl and boy, as it prevents infections that cause cancers and protects our children before they are exposed to the disease.

HPV vaccination recommendations: As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HPV vaccination is recommended at age 11 or 12 as routine and can begin as early as age 9.

If not adequately vaccinated at a younger age (11 or 12 years), the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also recommends vaccination for everyone through age 26 years.

If the person is older than 26 years, generally vaccination is not recommended because of its less benefit. However, some adults between 27 and 45 years might decide to get the HPV vaccine based on a discussion with a clinician.

Dosing schedules: According to the CDC, it is recommended that most individuals receive two doses of the HPV vaccine, starting the series before their 15th birthday. The vaccine can begin as early as age 9, and it is specifically suggested for routine administration in the 11 to 12-year age group.

Depending on the age, the vaccine is given as a series of either two or three doses at the initial vaccination.

After the first dose, the second dose is given 6 to 12 months later. 

If a person receives the second shot before 5 months following the first shot, they should get the third shot at least 4 months after the second shot.

Generally, three doses are recommended for teens and young adults who begin the series at ages 15 through 26 years, and for immunocompromised persons.

The recommended vaccination schedule consists of three doses: the first dose at 0 months, the second dose at 1 to 2 months, and the third dose at 6 months. 

Vaccination is generally not recommended for people over 26, as most sexually active adults have likely been exposed to HPV, though not necessarily to the specific types targeted by vaccination.

Having a new sexual partner at any age increases the risk of exposure to a new HPV infection. As the saying goes, prevention is better than a cure. Therefore, being in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship can help reduce the risk of contracting HPV.

Preventive steps for cervical health

One can follow the following steps to prevent cervical cancer and promote cervical health, including:

• Regular screening
• Vaccination
• Avoid smoking
• Maintain good hygiene
• Safe sexual practices such as:

• Using a condom during sex
• Limiting sexual partners
• Monogamous relationships

Conclusion: Regular screening, HPV vaccination, and safe sexual practices are key to protecting cervical health and preventing cervical cancer. Always consult a gynecologist for the right guidance on HPV, tests, and vaccinations.