More than 90% of cervical cancers are caused by an infection with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). HPV is divided into high-risk strains and low risk strains. Only the high-risk strains are responsible for causing cervical cancers.

It takes many years from the time of HPV infection till the development of cervical cancers. The pre-cancerous changes to the cervix also known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is asymptomatic and very treatable with a high chance of cure. Hence it is important to screen regularly as there are no symptoms in the pre-cancerous stage. Screening for cervical cancer should begin from 25 years in a woman who has previously engaged in sexual intercourse.

There are 2 methods to screen for cervical cancers. A HPV test and PAP smear. Both are performed by inserting a speculum through the vagina to visualise the cervix. A brush is then inserted to take some cells from the cervix for analysis. For cervical cancer screening, PAP smear tests every 3 years is performed from age 25-29 and a HPV test is performed every 5 years from 30 years onwards.

Vaginal self-sampling for HPV can be performed in the comforts of your own home. The accuracy is comparable to HPV performed by doctors. It is hoped that the added convenience will increase the acceptability and rates of screening.

Here are a few common misconceptions about cervical cancer and HPV infection:

1. Cervical cancer is hereditary.

    a. Cervical cancer is caused by the high risk HPV strain. It is not hereditary.

2. After being vaccinated with HPV vaccine, there is no need to do the PAP and HPV test anymore.

    a. Vaccination only prevents 90% of HPV infections. There are the remaining 10% that can be detected be screening with either PAP smear or HPV test. Screening is still essential after HPV vaccination.

3. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease

    a. HPV is not classified as a sexually transmitted disease

A: Stop smoking

B: Delaying age at first intercourse

C: Avoid having multiple sexual partners