Cervical Cancer 101

Learn the basics — what cervical cancer is, the risk factors, and what you need to know.

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

Most cervical cancers are caused by a persistent infection with certain high-risk types of human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV is very common, and most infections clear on their own. In some cases, however, a high-risk HPV infection can remain and cause changes to cervical cells over time.

What increases the risk?

HPV is the main risk factor for cervical cancer. Other factors can increase the likelihood that an HPV infection will persist or that abnormal cervical cells will progress.

These can include:

  • Smoking

  • A weakened immune system

  • HIV

  • Certain sexually transmitted infections

  • Some reproductive and hormonal factors

Having one or more risk factors does not mean that someone will develop cervical cancer.

Why screening matters

Early cervical cell changes often do not cause symptoms.

Screening can help identify high-risk HPV or abnormal cervical cells before cancer develops. Detecting these changes early can allow for monitoring or treatment before they become more serious.

HPV vaccination and regular cervical screening are two of the most important tools used to reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

What should you know?

Cervical cancer can be serious, but when it is found early and treated promptly, outcomes are often much better.

If you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about cervical cancer or screening, speak with a qualified healthcare provider.

A little knowledge can make a big difference.

Getting informed is an important first step toward better health — for yourself and for the people you care about.

CerviCALL provides general educational information and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Sources: Canadian Cancer Society • World Health Organization

HPV + Vaccination

Understanding HPV and the role vaccination can play in prevention.

What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a very common group of viruses that can affect the skin and mucous membranes.

HPV is usually spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity. Most HPV infections clear on their own and do not cause health problems.

How is HPV connected to cervical cancer?

Certain types of HPV are considered high-risk because they can cause changes to cervical cells over time.

A persistent infection with a high-risk type of HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV can also be linked to several other cancers.

Having HPV does not mean someone has cancer. In most cases, the immune system clears the infection naturally.

About the HPV vaccine

The HPV vaccine helps protect against the types of HPV most likely to cause cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers.

Vaccination is most effective when given before someone is exposed to HPV, which is why it is commonly offered at a younger age. However, some adults may still benefit from vaccination depending on their age and personal health history.

A healthcare provider can help determine whether the HPV vaccine is appropriate for you.

Is the HPV vaccine safe?

HPV vaccines have been studied extensively and are considered safe and effective.

Common side effects are usually mild and may include soreness at the injection site, headache, fatigue, or a mild fever.

Can you still get HPV after vaccination?

Yes. The vaccine protects against several high-risk types of HPV, but it does not protect against every HPV type.

That is why cervical screening remains important even if you have been vaccinated.

What should you know?

HPV is extremely common, and having HPV is nothing to be ashamed of.

Vaccination, regular cervical screening, and staying informed are important tools in reducing the risk of cervical cancer.

If you have questions about HPV, vaccination, or screening, speak with a qualified healthcare provider.

Vaccination today can help protect tomorrow.

CerviCALL provides general educational information and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Sources: Canadian Cancer Society • World Health Organization

Screening + Prevention

Learn about screening, prevention, and the steps that can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

  • Cervical cancer often develops slowly over time. Before cancer forms, changes can happen in the cells of the cervix that may not cause any symptoms.

    Screening can help find high-risk HPV or abnormal cervical cell changes early — often before cervical cancer develops. This is one of the reasons cervical cancer is considered one of the most preventable cancers.

  • Cervical screening checks for signs that may increase the risk of cervical cancer.

    Depending on where you live and the screening program in place, screening may involve:

    • An HPV test, which checks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus

    • A Pap test, which looks for abnormal changes in cervical cells

    A healthcare provider can help explain which type of screening is available and recommended for you.

  • Cervical screening is usually a quick procedure done by a healthcare provider.

    During the appointment, a small sample of cells is collected from the cervix and sent for testing. Some people may find screening uncomfortable, but it is usually brief and can play an important role in protecting long-term health.

    If you feel nervous about screening, it can help to ask questions ahead of time and talk to your provider about any concerns.

  • While not every case can be prevented, there are important ways to reduce the risk:

    • Getting the HPV vaccine

    • Attending regular cervical screening

    • Following up on abnormal test results

    • Avoiding or quitting smoking

    • Speaking with a healthcare provider if you have symptoms or concerns

  • You should speak with a healthcare provider if you have questions about when to be screened, whether you are due for screening, or if you notice symptoms such as unusual bleeding, pelvic pain, or changes that concern you.

    Even if you feel well, regular screening is still important because early cell changes often do not cause symptoms.

  • Prevention is not about fear — it’s about information, action, and early care.

    Screening and prevention can help more people stay informed, take control of their health, and reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

Small steps can make a big difference.

CerviCALL provides general educational information and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Sources: Canadian Cancer Society • World Health Organization