HPV & Cervical Cancer

Will HPV lead to cervical cancer?

Some types of HPV are linked to abnormal cell changes on the cervix which increases the risk of having abnormal cervical smears and developing cervical cancer. However, only a very small number of people with HPV infection are at risk of cervical smear abnormalities or cervical cancer. HPV is a common infection and is often cleared by our own immune system.

The types of HPV linked to cervical cancer are not usually the same types of HPV that cause genital warts. A woman with genital warts, like any person with a cervix who has even been sexually active should have regular cervical screening/smear tests as advised by health professionals.

HPV vaccination and having regular cervical screening are the best safeguards against developing cervical cancer. 

Cervical screening (also known as a Pap smear), in conjunction with HPV DNA tests where indicated, is a screening tool for detecting early changes occurring in the cervix which, if untreated or ignored, could progress over years to cancer. Cervical screening will detect abnormal cells present on the surface of the cervix. Cancer almost always can be prevented through the early detection and treatment of abnormal cervical tissue.

About HPV Virus

About HPV Virus

HPV is thought to be the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world, and most people are infected with HPV at some time in their…
HPV Key Facts

HPV Key Facts

HPV infection - key information – Vaccination against HPV has been available for many years. 80% of unvaccinated adults will pick up HPV at some point…
HPV Strains

HPV Strains

Papilloma is a word that means a small wart-like growth on the skin or mucous membrane. There are many types of papilloma infections - even some that…
HPV & Cancer

HPV & Cancer

While HPV is an extremely common infection, and there is a link between HPV and cervical, anal, penile, some vulval and throat cancers, it is…
HPV & Throat Cancer

HPV & Throat Cancer

HPV is transmitted to your mouth by oral sex. It may also be possible to get oral HPV in other ways. An increased number of oral sex partners…
HPV & Cervical Cancer

HPV & Cervical Cancer

Some types of HPV are linked to abnormal cell changes on the cervix which place women at higher risk of abnormal cervical smears and developing…
HPV & Other Cancers

HPV & Other Cancers

HPV and penile cancer – HPV-related penile cancers most often affect the ‘head’ of the penis and are rare. HPV and anal cancer – HPV-associated anal…
FAQ

FAQ

Frequently asked questions and key facts about HPV – Human Papillomavirus – FAQ's
HPV & Relationships

HPV & Relationships

The emotional impact of finding out that you or your partner has an STI can sometimes be worse than the actual infection. It’s really important to…