Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Pap Testing
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common infection that can be passed from person to person. Some types of HPV are spread through sexual contact. The cervix (the opening of the uterus) is lined with cells which can become infected with HPV. This may cause these normal cells to become dysplastic cells. Dysplastic cells are sometimes called "pre-cancerous" because they may turn into cancer if they are not treated. A Pap test can detect these dysplastic changes as well as high risk HPV. This allows your provider to treat these changes before they progress to cancer. Yearly screening with a Pap test is recommended for most women.
If you have need more information about an ASCUS or abnormal PAP test result, CLICK HERE
HPV Vaccine:
A vaccine exists to guard against certain types of HPV. It is given to women between the ages of 9 and 26. It consists of 3 shots over 6 months and is designed to decrease the number of people developing precancerous and cancerous changes of the cervix.
