Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the womb, and almost all cases are linked to persistent infection with a high-risk type of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is extremely common, and while most infections clear naturally, some can persist and cause abnormal cell changes that may eventually develop into cancer. Because cervical cancer typically develops slowly, there is a valuable window for screening, early detection, and treatment before cancer develops.
Cervical cancer is one of the more preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Yet myths and misinformation can lead women to underestimate their risk, avoid screening, or delay seeking medical advice. Understanding the facts, keeping up with recommended screening, and taking action when necessary can make a significant difference in prevention and early detection.
Here are eight common myths every woman should know.
Cervical Cancer Only Affects Older Women
Cervical cancer can affect women at different stages of life. While it is often diagnosed during midlife, the HPV infection responsible may have been acquired many years earlier. Being young, past menopause, or no longer sexually active doesn’t make the risk disappear. Screening decisions should be based on a woman’s age, health history, previous results, and individual risk.
You Only Need Screening If You Have Symptoms
Precancerous cervical changes and early cervical cancer often cause no symptoms. A woman may feel completely healthy while abnormal cells are developing. Possible warning signs include bleeding after sex, between periods, or after menopause, as well as unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or pain during sex. Screening is important because it can identify changes long before symptoms appear. These symptoms don’t always point to cancer, but they’re always worth getting checked.
A Positive HPV Test Means You Have Cancer
Testing positive for HPV does not mean that you have cervical cancer. HPV refers to a large group of viruses, only some of which are associated with cancer. The immune system clears most HPV infections naturally. However, if a high-risk infection persists, it may cause abnormal changes to cervical cells. Follow-up tests can determine whether the infection has cleared or requires further investigation.
HPV Means Your Partner Has Been Unfaithful
HPV can lie dormant for years, so a positive result does not reveal when the infection occurred or who passed it on. It is not evidence of recent infidelity. The virus is mainly spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact and does not require penetrative sex. Most sexually active people will encounter HPV at some point without realising it, as it often causes no symptoms.
Only Women with Several Sexual Partners Are at Risk
Having more sexual partners can increase the chance of HPV exposure, but it is possible to acquire HPV from just one partner. Condoms reduce the risk but do not provide complete protection because HPV can infect skin that is not covered. Smoking and having a weakened immune system also make it more difficult for the body to clear an HPV infection. Women living with HIV face a substantially higher risk of developing cervical cancer and generally require more frequent screening.
The HPV Vaccine Causes Infertility
There’s no credible evidence linking the HPV vaccine to infertility. The vaccines have undergone extensive safety testing and continue to be monitored internationally. HPV vaccination trains the immune system to recognise and fight the cancer-causing HPV types most commonly linked to cervical cancer. It works best when given before exposure to the virus, which is why vaccination is recommended at a young age. People who were not vaccinated earlier should ask a healthcare professional whether catch-up vaccination may be appropriate.
Vaccinated Women Never Need Cervical Screening
The HPV vaccine greatly lowers the risk of cervical cancer, but it does not protect against every high-risk type of HPV, and it can’t treat an existing HPV infection or abnormal cells. This is why vaccinated women still need cervical screening. The vaccine helps prevent HPV, while screening detects high-risk HPV and early cell changes. Women should continue screening as advised by their healthcare professional.
An Abnormal Screening Result Means You Have Cancer
Most abnormal cervical screening results are not cancer. A result may indicate HPV infection or early cell changes that can be monitored or treated before they become dangerous. Depending on the findings, a healthcare professional may recommend repeat testing, a colposcopy to examine the cervix more closely, or treatment to remove abnormal cells. Attending follow-up appointments is essential, even when you feel well.
Protect Yourself with the Facts
HPV vaccination, regular screening, and early treatment of abnormal cells can help prevent cervical cancer. Do not ignore unusual bleeding, ongoing discharge, pelvic pain, or pain during sex. If you experience any of these symptoms, speak to a healthcare professional promptly.
