Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and detectable cancers.
But only with screening.
For years, the Pap test (Pap smear) was the primary screening tool used to detect abnormal changes in the cervix. While the Pap test is still available, guidelines from the American Cancer Society now recommend something different:
Primary HPV testing is now the preferred screening method.
Why the shift? Because almost all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Instead of waiting to see if cervical cells have already changed (which is what a Pap detects), HPV testing identifies the virus that causes those changes – often years earlier.
Early detection saves lives. And now, we’re detecting risk sooner and more accurately than ever.
What Is HPV Testing?
HPV stands for human papillomavirus, a very common virus spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most sexually active individuals will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives.
There are many types of HPV:
- Some cause genital warts.
- Some are considered “high-risk” strains that can lead to cervical cancer.
An HPV test looks specifically for these high-risk strains in cervical cells.
What HPV testing is used for:
- Detecting high-risk HPV before abnormal cells develop
- Determining your future risk of cervical cancer
- Guiding how often you need follow-up screening
- Reducing unnecessary procedures if your risk is low
HPV testing can be:
- Clinician-collected during a pelvic exam (every 5 years if normal)
- In some settings, self-collected vaginal samples may be an option
When Should You Be Screened?
I’ve created a handy quick reference guide for this, download it here »
For Ages 25–65
The American Cancer Society recommends:
Primary HPV testing every 5 years (preferred).
If HPV testing is not available:
- HPV + Pap (co-testing) every 5 years
- Pap alone every 3 years
The most important thing?
👉 Get screened regularly – using the best test available to you.
For Those Under Age 25
Routine screening is not recommended because cervical cancer is extremely rare in this age group, and HPV infections often clear naturally.
For Those Over Age 65
Screening may stop if:
- You’ve had adequate prior normal screening
- You do not have a history of serious cervical precancer
If you’ve had a total hysterectomy (removal of the cervix) for non-cancerous reasons, screening may no longer be necessary – but this should always be discussed with your provider.
What If You’ve Received the HPV Vaccine?
You still need screening.
The HPV vaccine protects against the most common high-risk strains, but not all cancer-causing types. Vaccination significantly reduces risk, but it does not eliminate it.
Screening and vaccination work together – they are not substitutes.
What Increases Your Risk for Cervical Cancer?
Certain factors increase the likelihood that HPV infection will persist and progress:
Smoking Tobacco
If you have HPV and smoke, your risk increases significantly. Smoking suppresses immune function and creates an environment that allows HPV to persist and potentially progress.
Sexual Risk Factors
- Early onset of sexual activity
- Multiple sexual partners
- History of sexually transmitted infections
- A male partner whose previous partner had cervical cancer
Long-Term Oral Contraceptive Use
Oral contraceptives have been associated with a modest increase in cervical cancer risk, while barrier methods such as condoms offer some protection against HPV transmission.
Immunosuppression
If you take immunosuppressive medications or have a weakened immune system, you may require more frequent screening.
Family History
While cervical cancer is primarily virus-driven, some individuals may have increased genetic susceptibility to persistent HPV infection. Inform your provider if you have first-degree relatives with cervical cancer.
Natural Ways to Support Cervical Health
While screening is essential, supporting immune health is equally important.
- Avoid tobacco
- Limit sexual partners
- Use barrier protection if sexually active
- Maintain adequate intake of nutrients such as vitamin C, folate, and carotenoids
- Keep regular wellness visits
Remember: supplements support health — they do not replace screening.
The Bottom Line
Cervical cancer prevention has evolved.
We are no longer just looking for abnormal cells – we are identifying the virus that causes them.
Primary HPV testing every 5 years from ages 25-65 is now the preferred screening strategy.
Early detection. Smarter screening. Better prevention.
Please note: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Always discuss personal medical decisions with your healthcare provider.
What to Do Next
If you are interested in exploring integrative cancer prevention or naturopathic support of cancer treatment, schedule a telemedicine appointment with Dr. McMurry.
Resources
- The American Cancer Society Guidelines for Cervical Cancer Screening: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/cervical-cancer-screening-guidelines.html
- USPS Task Force Cervical Cancer: Screening: https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/cervical-cancer-screening
- Reducing the Risk of Gynecologic Cancers: https://www.cdc.gov/gynecologic-cancer/prevention/index.html
