HPV and Cervical Diseases
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable oncological diseases — this protection is achieved with regular Pap smears, HPV testing and, when indicated, vaccination. HPV is a virus anyone with a sexual life may encounter: in most cases the body clears it on its own, while certain high-risk types require follow-up.
What is it?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. The Pap smear and HPV test detect precancerous changes years in advance.
Who is it for?
Regular screening for all women starting at age 21; colposcopy for clarification in HPV-positive cases and abnormal cytology.
Risks?
Detecting HPV is not a cancer diagnosis — it is a condition requiring follow-up. "Cauterizing an erosion" without tests is not correct practice.
What is the correct sequence?
- First, a Pap smear and PCR testing for infections (including HPV)
- Treatment based on the results
- Only then a decision about removing the erosion
- Then follow-up exams 1–2 times a year
Treatment approach
With an abnormal Pap result or detected HPV, a colposcopy is performed — an examination of the cervix with magnifying optics. The procedure feels like a normal exam, is painless and takes 10–15 minutes; a small tissue sample (biopsy) is taken if needed. Since HPV can cause pathological processes in both genital and extragenital areas, the follow-up plan is built individually. The HPV vaccine gives the greatest benefit in adolescence, but can also be recommended to adults up to a certain age.
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