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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

    The .gov means its official.

    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 

    Cervical cancer is a gynecological cancer that begins in a person's cervix.  Each year in the United States, about 11,500 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed and about 4,000 women die of this cancer. Cervical cancer occurs most often in people over the age of 30. 

    What causes cervical cancer?

    The human papillomavirus or HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer.  HPV is a common virus that can be passed from one person to another during sexual activity. 

    What are the signs and symptoms?

    In the early stages of cervical cancer, there may not be any signs or symptoms.  Signs and symptoms associated with cervical cancer include:

    • abnormal vaginal bleeding
    • unusual discharge from the vagina
    • pain during vaginal intercourse

    If you have unusual vaginal bleeding, see a doctor right away.

    Are there cervical cancer tests?

    There are two tests that can prevent cervical cancer or identify it in early stages. The tests are:

    • The Pap test or Pap smear – looks for precancers or cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if not treated.  A Pap test can also find cervical cancer in early stages when treatment is the most effective.  The Pap test is recommended for women 21-65.
    • The HPV test – tests for the presence of the HPV (human papillomavirus), the virus that is the main cause of precancerous cell changes and cervical cancer.

    ​

    cervical cancer screening saves lives

    How can cervical cancer be prevented?

    • Get the HPV vaccine. It is recommended for 11- and 12- year- old girls and boys, but can be given starting at age 9.  It is also recommended for girls/women 13 to 26 and boys/men 13-21 who have not had any or all of the series of shots when they were younger. Older children and teens need vaccines too!
    • See your doctor regularly for a Pap test. Follow up with your doctor if the Pap test results are not normal.
    • Do not smoke.
    • Use condoms during sex.
    • Limit your number of sexual partners. 

    Are free or low-cost Pap tests available?

    If you have a low income, do not have insurance or are underinsured, you may be eligible for  free or low-cost Pap and HPV tests. Please visit the PA Breast and Cervical Early Detection Program page for more information. 

    Additional Resources