Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viral infections in the world, yet many people know surprisingly little about it. In the UK alone, it’s estimated that 8 out of 10 sexually active adults will contract HPV at some point in their lives. While most infections cause no symptoms and clear naturally, certain high-risk strains are closely linked to cervical cancer — a disease that affects thousands of women each year.

Understanding how HPV contributes to cervical cancer, and the steps you can take to protect yourself, is essential for women’s long-term reproductive health.

What is HPV?

HPV is a group of more than 100 related viruses, some of which infect the skin and others the mucous membranes of the body — such as the mouth, throat, and genitals. Most HPV infections are harmless, causing only minor issues like skin warts or genital warts. However, a small subset of high-risk HPV types can cause serious health problems, including cervical cancer.

The two strains responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases are HPV types 16 and 18, which are known for their ability to cause persistent infections that lead to abnormal cell changes in the cervix.

How HPV Causes Cervical Cancer

When a high-risk HPV strain infects the cells of the cervix, it can disrupt their normal growth cycle. Over time, these abnormal cells may multiply uncontrollably, forming precancerous lesions. If not detected and treated early, these lesions can progress into cervical cancer.

This process often takes many years, which is why regular cervical screening (smear tests) is so effective. It allows doctors to identify and treat abnormal cells before they have the chance to become cancerous.

If you’d like to learn more about recognising the early symptoms, visit our main guide — Cervical Cancer: Early Warning Signs Every Woman Should Know.

How HPV is Transmitted

HPV is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity — including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Because the virus can spread even when there are no visible symptoms, it’s almost impossible to know when you were exposed or who you got it from.

HPV can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of age or gender. The risk increases with multiple sexual partners or not using barrier protection. However, even people in long-term, monogamous relationships can carry the virus unknowingly, as HPV can remain dormant in the body for years.

Symptoms of HPV Infection

Most people with HPV experience no symptoms at all, which is why regular screening is vital. For those infected with low-risk HPV strains, visible genital warts may appear — small, painless growths or lumps on the genital area.

High-risk HPV strains do not cause warts or visible signs, but they can silently cause cell changes in the cervix, which are only detectable through a smear test.

Role of Cervical Screening in HPV Detection

Cervical screening (smear test) is the most reliable method to detect high-risk HPV infections and early cell changes in the cervix. In the UK, all women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited for routine screening through the NHS.

Here’s what happens during a typical screening:

1. A small sample of cells is taken from the cervix using a soft brush.
2. The sample is tested for high-risk HPV.
3. If HPV is detected, the cells are examined for abnormalities.
4. If abnormal cells are found, you may be referred for a colposcopy, a more detailed examination of the cervix.

This simple test takes just a few minutes and can prevent up to 90% of cervical cancer cases when done regularly.

HPV Vaccination: A Powerful Preventive Tool

Since 2008, the HPV vaccination programme in the UK has played a major role in reducing HPV infections and cervical cancer cases. The vaccine protects against the most common high-risk HPV strains, including types 16 and 18, as well as those that cause genital warts.

The vaccine is typically offered to girls and boys aged 12–13 through schools, but adults who missed out can also get vaccinated privately. Clinical evidence shows that vaccination, combined with regular screening, provides the best long-term protection against cervical cancer.

If you have not yet received the HPV vaccine, speak to your gynaecologist about whether it’s suitable for you.

Risk Factors That Increase HPV Persistence

While most HPV infections clear naturally within 1–2 years, certain factors make it more likely for the virus to persist and lead to cervical abnormalities:

• Smoking: Weakens the immune system and damages cervical cells.
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives: Slightly increases risk with prolonged use.
• Weakened immunity: Due to conditions like HIV or long-term steroid use.
• Multiple sexual partners: Increases exposure to different HPV strains.
• Early sexual activity: The cervix is more vulnerable to infection during adolescence.

Taking steps to strengthen your immune system and reduce these risks can help your body fight off HPV more effectively.

Can Men Get or Transmit HPV?

Yes — men can both contract and transmit HPV, even if they show no symptoms. While cervical cancer affects only women, HPV can also cause penile, anal, and throat cancers in men. This is why vaccination for boys has become an essential part of public health policy, helping reduce HPV transmission across the population.

Can HPV Be Cured?

There is currently no direct cure for HPV, but in most cases, the body’s immune system clears the virus naturally. For persistent infections or abnormal cell changes, treatment focuses on removing or monitoring affected tissue.

Depending on the severity of the changes, options may include colposcopy, cryotherapy (freezing), or loop excision (LLETZ) procedures to remove abnormal cells. Early treatment ensures that the risk of developing cervical cancer remains extremely low.

Living with HPV: Emotional and Physical Well-being

Receiving a positive HPV result can cause anxiety or confusion, but it’s important to remember that HPV is common, manageable, and does not mean you will develop cancer. In fact, most infections resolve without any intervention.

What’s most important is follow-up care — attending repeat screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking support from your gynaecologist when needed. Clinics like Gynaecology Clinic London offer confidential advice, compassionate care, and early detection services tailored to women’s needs.

Preventing HPV and Cervical Cancer

You can significantly reduce your risk through a combination of lifestyle habits, vaccination, and regular screening:

• Get vaccinated: It’s the most effective way to prevent high-risk HPV infections.
• Attend smear tests regularly: Detects infections and cell changes early.
• Practise safe sex: Use condoms or dental dams to reduce HPV transmission.
• Stop smoking: Improves cervical cell health and immune function.
• Maintain a balanced diet: A diet rich in antioxidants supports immune defence.

These measures, when followed consistently, can drastically reduce the likelihood of developing cervical cancer.

When to See a Gynaecologist

If you notice symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or unusual vaginal discharge, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Even if you’ve had a recent smear test, new symptoms should always be checked.

For discreet and comprehensive care, you can book a private gynaecology consultation at a trusted clinic where tests, results, and follow-up care are handled efficiently and compassionately.

Final Thoughts

HPV is widespread, but cervical cancer doesn’t have to be. With modern screening methods, vaccination, and increased awareness, the majority of cervical cancers are now preventable.

Educating yourself about the HPV–cervical cancer connection empowers you to take proactive steps for your well-being. Staying informed, getting vaccinated, and keeping up with your screening schedule are the best defences against this disease.

For further insight into recognising early signs and symptoms, read our detailed article: Cervical Cancer: Early Warning Signs Every Woman Should Know.