Almost all cervical cancer begins as an infection from a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is sexually transmitted. It is common in women and men. Cervical cancer is not caused by poor hygiene after sex.

What is HPV? Human papillomavirus (pap-ih-LO-ma- VYE-rus) is a virus that is sexually transmitted. There are more than 100 different kinds of HPV. Some of them produce noncancerous warts. Some types of HPV are related to cervical cancer. A Pap test can detect early cell changes caused by HPV before they lead to cervical cancer.

"I always use a condom. Should I worry about getting HPV?"

Doctor Nguyen: "A condom does not effectively protect against HPV. Even when a condom is used, HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal and anal intercourse, finger to genital contact and finger to anal contact."

Glossary Terms

A type of virus that can cause abnormal tissue growth (for example, warts) and other changes to cells. Infection for a long time with certain types of human papillomavirus may cause cervical cancer. Human papillomavirus may also play a role in some other types of cancer. Also called HPV.