Causes

There are certain factors that increase your risk for cervical cancer. Research suggests that often two of the following factors are present when cervical cancer develops:

• You have had sex with many partners.
• You became sexually active before you were 18.
• You smoke.
• Your immune system is weakened, such as in women who have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or are on medications to suppress their immune system after a transplant.
• You or partner have human papillomavirus (HPV).

Method for Detecting Cervical Cancer

A Papanicolaou (PAP) smear is a simple procedure for women that involves swabbing a small sample of cells from the cervix during a pelvic exam. These cells are transferred to a slide and then examined and evaluated by a certified laboratory. In addition to testing for cancerous or precancerous conditions, the Pap smear is also useful for detecting some types of infections.

Women should begin having annual Pap smears at age 18 or when they become sexually active. After having three normal Pap smears in a row within 5 years, your doctor may recommend screenings less often, but you will need a Pap smear at least once every 3 years.

If you have had a hysterectomy because of cervical cancer, you should still schedule regular Pap smears.

More frequent Pap smears are recommended for women who have had an abnormal Pap smear in the past 5 years or who are HIV positive. Women with HIV infection may need more frequent Pap smears as their disease progresses.

To ensure the most accurate test results with your Pap smear, avoid using a vaginal douche or any type of lubricant for 24 hours before having a Pap smear. If you have used either, tell your doctor before the procedure.

Regular Pap smear screening makes it possible to find evidence of cancer early, when the disease is easier to cure. When diagnosed early, cervical cancer can be cured in almost all cases.