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Supplement: Closing the Gap in Cervical Cancer Screening
Updates in the Pharmacotherapy of Endometriosis
Vaginismus: Managing a Misunderstood and Underdiagnosed Condition
Why vNOTES Make Sense for My Patients
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HPV and Cervical Cancer: Key Things Women Should Know
Cervical cancer is preventable. Early detection of pre-cancerous changes - through screening - is key.
Cervical cancer is preventable. Early detection of pre-cancerous changes - through screening - is key.
Cervical cancer is shown to be caused by a virus - HPV (human papillomavirus). Of the approximately 70 types of HPV, there are 13 types known as "high-risk" types, that are associated with cervical cancer. HPV is more common in women under age 30 and almost always clears on its own.
Most women will have HPV at some point, but very few will develop cervical cancer. When a woman's immune system is working normally, only HPV infection that is persistent over many years can lead to cervical cancer.
It can be helpful to know your HPV status. This can help determine whether or not you are at "lower risk," as advised by your healthcare provider.
Don't blame. Your HPV status is not a reliable indicator of your, or your partner's, sexual behavior.