Preventing Cervical Cancer: What to Know, When to Screen
- Jan 20
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 25
Cervical cancer starts quietly. No pain. No warning signs. Often, the first clue appears during a routine screening — strong proof that what you don’t feel can still matter.
The good news is that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and one of the most treatable when caught early.
HPV is the primary culprit
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV and Pap tests can detect changes in your cervix early, so you can knock them out before they become serious.
HPV is extremely common; in fact, most sexually active adults are exposed at some point. While your body may clear the virus on its own, some high-risk types can persist and cause cervical cell changes over time. That makes routine screening essential, even when you feel healthy.
Two tests you need
Providers rely on two main tests to detect cervical cancer: Pap and HPV testing. Your doctor can help you decide which of the options listed below are best for you based on your age and health history — and help you stay on track over time.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends this screening schedule for people with a cervix who are at average risk:
Ages 21–29: Start screening with a Pap test every 3 years
Ages 30–65: Choose one of the following options:
— Pap test every 3 years, or
— HPV test every 5 years, or
— Pap + HPV co-test every 5 years
Over age 65: You may be able to stop screening if you’ve had regular normal results and no history of serious cervical cell changes; talk to your doctor
HPV vaccination
The HPV vaccine protects against cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile and throat cancers, as well as genital warts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend routine HPV vaccination for:
Boys and girls ages 11–12, with catch-up vaccination through age 26
Adults ages 27–45 may also choose to get the HPV vaccine after talking to their provider; many people in this age group can still benefit, especially if they weren’t vaccinated earlier
The MNPS Health Care Centers can provide HPV shots for eligible patients and help you decide whether vaccination up to age 45 is right for you.
The HPV vaccine protects against virus types that cause most cervical cancers. Even if you’ve been vaccinated, regular screening still matters.
STI screening and cervical health
Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis often have no symptoms. When left untreated, they can cause inflammation that affects the cervix and overall reproductive health. Routine STI screening helps catch infections early, protect fertility and support overall cervical health. Talk to your provider about which tests are right for you.
Your next step
Cervical cancer screening, HPV vaccination and routine STI testing are important parts of preventive care. MNPS Health Care Center providers can explain what’s recommended for your age, history and risk. Call 615-259-8755 or schedule an appointment online.