Debunking myths about cervical cancer: What every woman needs to know

Misinformation around cervical cancer continues to put women at risk. Here's what doctors want every woman to know about prevention and facts.

In Short

• India reports over 1.23 lakh cervical cancer cases and 77,000 deaths yearly
• Any sexually active woman can get HPV, even with one partner
• Most HPV infections stay silent, making routine Pap and HPV tests vital

Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable yet misunderstood cancers among women. Despite years of awareness campaigns, many women still rely on half-truths, myths, and assumptions when it comes to their health.

These misconceptions not only create fear but also delay diagnosis and treatment, making the condition more dangerous than it needs to be.

According to Globocan 2020, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally. India alone accounts for nearly one-quarter of the global burden, with over 1.23 lakh new cases and more than 77,000 deaths reported every year.

These numbers highlight a serious public health concern, one that could be significantly reduced with the right information and timely action.

In the middle of this growing concern, Dr Pratima Raj, Associate Consultant – Gynaecological Oncology, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, stresses that awareness is the strongest tool women have. She explains that while conversations around HPV vaccination and screening have increased, myths continue to persist, especially around HPV infection, vaccines, and testing.

Understanding what is true and what is not can make all the difference.

MYTH: HPV ONLY AFFECTS WOMEN WITH MULTIPLE PARTNERS

Fact: HPV can infect any sexually active woman

One of the most common misconceptions is that HPV infection is linked only to women with multiple sexual partners. In reality, any sexually active woman—even with just one partner—can be exposed to HPV. Studies show that by the age of 50, more than 80% of women will have encountered HPV at some point.

MYTH: HPV MEANS YOU WILL GET CERVICAL CANCER

Fact: Most HPV infections resolve on their own

Testing positive for HPV does not mean you will develop cervical cancer. In most cases, the body clears the infection naturally without causing harm. However, in some women, the infection persists and may lead to abnormal cell changes over time. This is why regular screening is essential—it helps detect early changes before they turn serious.

MYTH: HPV ALWAYS SHOWS SYMPTOMS

Fact: Most infections are silent

Many women assume that no symptoms mean no problem. But HPV often shows no warning signs. High-risk strains linked to cervical cancer can go unnoticed for years. Symptoms like abnormal discharge, irregular bleeding, or pelvic pain usually appear only at a later stage. This makes routine Pap and HPV testing extremely important.

MYTH: SCREENING IS THE ONLY WAY TO PREVENT CERVICAL CANCER

Fact: Lifestyle choices also play a role

While Pap and HPV tests are crucial, prevention goes beyond screening. Getting the HPV vaccine, avoiding smoking, delaying sexual activity at a very young age, and reducing the number of sexual partners can all lower the risk. Conditions like HIV, chlamydia, or weakened immunity can further increase vulnerability.

MYTH: YOU DON’T NEED SCREENING AFTER HPV VACCINATION

Fact: Screening is still necessary

The HPV vaccine protects against several high-risk strains, but not all. This means even vaccinated women need regular Pap and HPV tests. Vaccination works best when given before exposure to the virus, ideally in adolescence, but screening remains important throughout adulthood.

MYTH: PAP TESTS MUST BE DONE EVERY YEAR

Fact: Frequency depends on age and results

Annual testing is not always required. Women aged 21–65 can have a Pap test every three years if results are normal. Women between 30 and 64 can opt for an HPV test every five years. After 65, screening needs to depend on individual health history and should be discussed with a doctor.

MYTH: HPV INFECTIONS ALWAYS GO AWAY ON THEIR OWN

Fact: Some infections can persist

While many HPV infections clear naturally, some can stay in the body and lead to serious conditions like genital warts or cancer. Regular follow-ups and monitoring are key.

MYTH: CERVICAL CANCER MEANS YOU CAN’T HAVE CHILDREN

Fact: Fertility-preserving treatments are possible

Advancements in treatment now allow doctors to preserve fertility in certain cases. Early detection increases the chances of safer and more flexible treatment options.

MYTH: CERVICAL CANCER IS HEREDITARY

Fact: It is caused by HPV infection

Unlike some other cancers, cervical cancer is not inherited. It is primarily caused by persistent HPV infection. Prevention through vaccination and screening remains the most effective approach.

MYTH: ONLY WOMEN NEED TO WORRY ABOUT HPV

Fact: HPV affects all sexes

HPV is not limited to women. Men can also carry and transmit the virus. Vaccination is recommended for individuals between 9 and 65 years, regardless of gender.

MYTH: CONDOMS FULLY PROTECT AGAINST HPV

Fact: They reduce risk but don’t eliminate it

HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, so while condoms lower the risk, they cannot provide complete protection.

MYTH: CERVICAL CANCER IS ALWAYS FATAL

Fact: Early detection saves lives

When detected early, cervical cancer is highly treatable. Regular screening plays a crucial role in improving survival rates.

Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented and even detected early with simple tests. Yet, myths continue to hold many women back from taking the right steps.

The key lies in awareness, timely screening, and vaccination. Understanding your body, asking questions, and not ignoring regular check-ups can go a long way in protecting your health.

Because when it comes to cervical cancer, what you know can truly save your life.

- Ends