HPV Vaccine and Cervical Cancer Screenings

Understanding cervical cancer risk and prevention

Cervical cancer can have significant implications for women's health, but early detection is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious outcomes. Regular cervical cancer screenings are crucial for identifying abnormal cell changes before they turn into cancer, and HPV vaccinations can greatly reduce your risk of developing the disease.

The experts at Reid Health are committed to providing personalized care and guidance to help you maintain your health and well-being.

What is a cervical cancer screening?

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. A cervical cancer screening allows your provider to collect and test cervical cells to detect early or see changes in cells that could eventually lead to cancer.

Types of cervical cancer screenings

Cervical cancer screenings are typically part of your routine well-woman exam. Your provider might use one of two tests:

• Pap tests (Pap smear): This test looks for abnormal or precancerous cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if untreated. During this test, your provider uses a small brush or spatula to collect cervical cells.  
• HPV tests: This test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common cause of cervical cancer. This test can be done alone or at the same time as a Pap test. A Pap test can identify cervical cancer, but an HPV test can only identify a virus that can causes it.

Who needs cervical cancer screenings?

Regular cervical cancer screenings are an important part of preventive care. The type of screening and how often you need it can vary based on your age, health history, and risk factors. Your healthcare provider will recommend the best schedule for you.

• Ages 21–29: 
  Most people in this age group will have a Pap test every 3 years. HPV testing is not routinely recommended as the primary test at this age, but your provider may recommend it in certain situations.
• Ages 30–65: 
  During these years, you should continue regular cervical cancer screenings. Your provider will determine which testing option is best for you. This may include:
  • A Pap test every 3 years
  • An HPV test every 5 years
  • A Pap and HPV test together (called co-testing) every 5 years
• Over age 65: 
  Screening may no longer be needed if you’ve had regular, normal test results and don’t have other risk factors. Your provider will let you know if it’s safe to stop screening.

Some people may need more frequent or screening over the age of 65 if they have certain health conditions, such as a weakened immune system, a history of cervical changes, or a prior hysterectomy. Always follow your provider’s recommendations.

What the results of Pap and HPV tests mean

Pap test results will show your cervical cells are normal, abnormal, or unclear. Normal means no precancerous changes were detected. Abnormal test results mean there are cervical cell changes detected. This does may mean you have cervical cancer, but your provider will determine next steps based on your specific result and medical history.  

HPV test results will either be positive (you do have the virus) or negative (you don’t have the virus). If your results are positive, a high-risk type of HPV has been detected. This doesn’t mean you have cervical cancer now, but it does mean your provider will recommend appropriate follow-up to monitor or manage any changes.  

Protecting yourself with the HPV vaccine

While screenings are essential, you can help protect yourself against strains of HPV that cause most cervical cancers with the HPV vaccine. HPV is a common infection, and about 80% of sexually active people will contract HPV in their lifetime.  

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

To be most effective, the HPV vaccine is recommended for children ages 11 to 12 — before they become sexually active — but it can be given to children as young as 9 years old. The HPV vaccine is also recommended for young adults before age 26 who weren’t vaccinated previously. You should talk to your provider if you’re older than 26 and concerned about your risk.  

Even if you receive the HPV vaccine, it is important to keep up with routine cervical cancer screenings. No vaccine offers complete protection.