HPV Prevention
Protect Yourself Through Vaccination, Screening & Safe Practices
HPV is Preventable
While HPV is very common, you can significantly reduce your risk through vaccination, regular screening, and safe practices. Cervical cancer caused by HPV is largely preventable.
Primary Prevention: HPV Vaccination
The Most Effective Prevention
HPV vaccination is the most effective way to prevent HPV infection and cervical cancer. The vaccine protects against the HPV types that cause most cancers and genital warts.
Effective at preventing cervical cancer
Gardasil-9 protects against 9 HPV types
Who Should Get Vaccinated
- Ages 9-14: Ideal time (2-dose schedule)
- Ages 15-26: Catch-up vaccination (3-dose schedule)
- Ages 27-45: Discuss with doctor (may still benefit)
When to Get Vaccinated
The vaccine works best when given before exposure to HPV (before sexual activity begins). However, even if you're already sexually active, you can still benefit from vaccination.
Secondary Prevention: Regular Screening
Early Detection Saves Lives
Regular cervical cancer screening detects HPV and abnormal cell changes before they become cancer. Even if you're vaccinated, continue regular screening.
Pap Smear
Detects abnormal cervical cells
- •Ages 21-29: Every 3 years
- •Ages 30-65: Every 3-5 years
HPV Test
Detects high-risk HPV types
- •Ages 30-65: Every 5 years
- •Or co-testing with Pap smear
Additional Prevention Strategies
Safe Sexual Practices
- •Use condoms consistently (reduces but doesn't eliminate risk)
- •Limit number of sexual partners
- •Be in a mutually monogamous relationship
- •Delay sexual activity
Don't Smoke
Smoking doubles the risk of cervical cancer in women with HPV. Quitting reduces this risk.
Boost Immune System
Healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management help your body clear HPV.
Complete Prevention Strategy
Get Vaccinated
HPV vaccine (ages 9-45)
Get Screened Regularly
Pap smear and/or HPV test as recommended
Practice Safe Sex
Use condoms, limit partners
Don't Smoke
Avoid or quit smoking
Stay Healthy
Maintain strong immune system
Related Information
Start Your HPV Prevention Today
Get vaccinated and screened. Prevention is the best protection against HPV and cervical cancer.