Cervical Cancer Prevention: HPV Vaccine + Pap Smears

Thanks to today’s advancements in immunizations and cancer screenings, cervical cancer has become one of the most preventable cancers. Most cervical cancers begin with long-lasting infections from human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that spreads through sexual and skin-to-skin contact. In many cases, the body clears HPV naturally, but when the virus lingers, it can slowly cause changes in cervical cells, often without showing any signs.  

The good news is that two powerful tools can significantly reduce your risk of this gynecological cancer: 

• The HPV vaccine to prevent the infections that cause most cervical cancer cases 
• Routine Pap smears to detect early cell changes long before they become cancer

What is the HPV vaccine? 

The HPV vaccine is a preventive vaccine that helps your immune system recognize and block the high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to cervical cancer. By stopping these infections before they start, the vaccine lowers your long-term risk and helps protect your cervical health for years to come. 

How does the HPV vaccine work? 

The HPV vaccine gives your body the tools it needs to fight HPV from the moment of exposure by:  

• Training the immune system to recognize high-risk HPV types 
• Preventing new HPV infections, which cause the majority of cervical cancer  
• Reduces the chance of precancerous cell changes, even years after administered

While the vaccine does not treat existing HPV infections, its prevention capabilities make this one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer.   

Who can receive the HPV vaccine? 

Many experts recommend the HPV vaccine for:

• Children aged 9 – 12, when the immune response is strongest  
• Children and young adults ages 13 – 26 who have not received the vaccine or had all their doses 

If you’ve had HPV in the past, the vaccine can still protect against strains you have yet to encounter. For personalized guidance on vaccine schedules, talk with your primary care provider.  

What is a Pap smear? 

A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a screening that checks for early changes in the cells of your cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. When found early, these changes can be monitored or treated before they become cervical cancer. 

How does a Pap smear work? 

During a Pap smear, your provider gently collects a small sample of cervical cells. These cells are then examined under a microscope to look for any abnormalities.  

The test itself is quick, typically lasting just a few minutes, and is performed during a routine pelvic examination. You may experience some cramping and mild discomfort during this test, but symptoms should subside shortly after.  

Who should get a Pap smear? 

Your primary care physician can help determine the right screening schedule for you based on your age, medical history, and past results. However, many guidelines recommend Pap testing every three to five years for:  

• Women starting around age 21 - 29, depending on individual risk factors 

If you’ve had abnormal results or have a family history of cervical cancer, your physician may recommend more frequent testing.  

What to do if Pap smear results are abnormal 

We understand that “abnormal” results can cause panic and leave you with many questions. While these results require a closer look, they may not mean you have cervical cancer.  

To rule out cancer and set up a treatment or monitoring schedule, follow-up care is recommended and may include:  

• Repeat testing  
• Colposcopy  
• Treatment for precancerous cells, if needed 

If you’ve received abnormal test results, call your doctor to discuss your next steps and get the answers you’re looking for. 

HPV vaccines and regular Pap smears work best together, offering strong, reliable protection throughout your life. Whether you’re learning about cervical cancer prevention or are simply due for your next screening, each step you take can make a lasting difference.