Stop cervical cancer before it starts

What is cervical cancer? 

Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing most cervical cancer. And all women are at risk for this type of cancer.

Key facts about cervical cancer

• Cervical cancer begins in the cervix and is most often caused by an infection from certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
• It often develops slowly over time and may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
• Regular screening, including Pap tests and HPV testing, can help detect abnormal cells before they become cancer.
• Cervical cancer is largely preventable with routine screening and vaccination.
• When detected early, cervical cancer is highly treatable.

Cervical cancer prevention: how can you protect yourself?

Cervical cancer can often be found early or prevented through regular screening. It can develop relatively slowly over time, making early detection of cervical pre-cancers the best way to treat it.

HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine is for girls and boys as well as adults who did not receive the vaccine as children. Talk to your provider and your children’s provider about an HPV vaccine to help minimize the risk of cervical cancer.

• Children should receive two shots of HPV vaccine at least 6 months apart at ages 11 or 12 (can start as early as age 9), finishing the two-shot series before their 13th birthday.
• Teens and young adults who did not start the HPV vaccine series before they turned 15 will need three shots within six months for best protection.
• Teens, young adults, and women through age 26 who have not received the HPV shots should ask their doctor or nurse about getting them now.
• Adults age 27–45 should talk with their doctor about the HPV vaccine and if it’s necessary for them.

Cervical Cancer Screening

If you're an adult woman, schedule a yearly exam with your primary care provider, OB/GYN, or other health professional.

• Current screening guidelines³ – recommend that women who are age 21-65 should have a Pap test every three years.
• Women age 30-65 should have a co-test (a Pap and an HPV test together) every five years or a Pap test alone every three years. (You may need to screen more often if you have a history of abnormal test results.)

Women should schedule a test when they will not be having their period. In the two days before a test, women should avoid intercourse, douching, and using vaginal medicines or spermicidal foam. Patient navigation services for cervical cancer screening and any necessary follow‑up are covered as preventive services. Coverage is based on an assessment of the patient’s need for navigation support to help increase use of recommended screening.

Patient navigation includes direct, person‑to‑person contact with the patient (in person, virtual, or hybrid). The specific components of navigation should be tailored to each patient.

Services may include⁴ – but are not limited to – person‑centered assessment and planning, help accessing health care and navigating the health system, referrals to needed support services (such as language interpretation, transportation, or social services), and patient education.

For Capital Blue Cross Members

For Capital Blue Cross members, screenings and vaccines may be covered as part of your preventive care.

So, call your preferred health professional today and start getting on a routine schedule. Start getting screened to stop cervical cancer in its tracks.

FAQ

How can cervical cancer be prevented?

Cervical cancer can often be prevented through routine screening and vaccination. Regular Pap tests and HPV testing can detect abnormal cells early, and the HPV vaccine can help reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is recommended for children at ages 11 or 12, but it can be given as early as age 9. Teens and young adults who did not start the vaccine earlier may need additional doses, and adults ages 27–45 should talk with their doctor about whether it is appropriate for them.

How often should you get screened for cervical cancer?

Women ages 21–29 should have a Pap test every three years. Women ages 30–65 should have a Pap test every three years or a combined Pap and HPV test every five years, depending on their health history.

Do you still need screening if you get the HPV vaccine?

Yes. The HPV vaccine does not replace the need for regular Pap tests and pelvic exams, which are important for detecting abnormal cells early.

This is not medical advice and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. The information provided is meant for a general audience. Capital Blue Cross and its affiliated companies believe this health education resource provides useful information but does not assume any liability associated with its use.